AAA: When Travel Ban Ends, Drive Safely

With blizzard conditions expected to menace Connecticut overnight into Tuesday, AAA urges motorists to obey the travel ban issued by Governor Malloy. AAA’s Roadside Rescue Team will work diligently with state and local first responders to get help to stranded motorists.

“Do not travel unless absolutely necessary,” said AAA Public Affairs Manager Aaron Kupec. “Do not risk danger to yourself and those who might have to rescue you by venturing out during the storm.”

Once the storm passes and roads have been sufficiently cleared, AAA offers the following driving advice:

Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow or ice. A blocked vehicle exhaust pipe could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.

Clear your vehicle and driveway. State law requires passenger vehicles to be clear of icy elements before hitting the road. Not clearing driveways may prevent emergency personnel from reaching those in need.

Observe road closure orders. Do not attempt to drive on closed roads. Stay tuned to local media outlets and government agency updates regarding restricted roads and closures, storm damage and emergency relief efforts.

Use major routes that have been cleared and salted whenever possible.

Avoid passing plows, unless necessary.

Increase following distance to 8-10 seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.

Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Reduced traction causes simple maneuvers, such as accelerating, stopping, and turning, to take longer on snow-covered roads.

Do not engage your vehicle’s cruise control. Using cruise control on slick roads can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

In case of an emergency:

Pull off the road onto level ground, away from traffic as safely as possible. If you cannot pull off the road, make sure your vehicle is visible by switching on emergency flashers.  Do not risk danger to yourself by attempting to push your vehicle to a safe location.

Remain with your vehicle. Under most circumstances, if you have a cell phone, it’s best to remain with your vehicle until assistance arrives. However, if you think your vehicle might be struck from behind, do not remain in it. Never stand behind or directly in front of it because other drivers may not see you.

Communicate your situation. Once you and your passengers are in a safe location, call for assistance. AAA members in need of roadside assistance can reach AAA by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP or visiting AAA.com/ERS. Smartphone users can download the AAA Mobile app for free and request roadside service with the touch of a button. 

 

AAA provides travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services to 54 million members nationwide. AAA is committed to keeping its members on-the-go by providing outstanding roadside assistance, valuable online resources on buying and maintaining vehicles and through the Approved Auto Repair program, which has inspected and approved over 7,000 auto repair facilities in North America. For more information about AAA, members and non-members can visit one of eight offices in Greater Hartford and eastern Connecticut, go online to AAA.com or call 860-236-3261.

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Submitted by Redding, CT

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