Be Prepared, Stay Alert and Keep Safety a Priority as Winter Approaches
As temperatures drop and winter approaches Western New York, it’s time for motorists to prepare for the challenges of driving in Erie County. We all hope for a mild winter, but anyone who has lived here long enough knows how quickly conditions can change. One day the roads are clear, and the next, lake-effect snow, freezing rain, ice and poor visibility can make driving dangerous.
The historic November 2014 lake-effect snowstorm, which buried parts of Erie County under several feet of snow, remains a reminder of how quickly Mother Nature can disrupt our daily lives. Now is the time to prepare—not when the first major storm hits.
As Erie County Clerk, I encourage all motorists to take a few simple steps to protect themselves, their passengers and everyone sharing the road.
Adjust your driving to the conditions. Slow down, leave extra space between vehicles and allow more time to reach your destination. Snow and ice increase stopping distances, so brake gently and accelerate gradually. Use extra caution on bridges, overpasses, ramps and shaded areas, where ice can form first. Remember, four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles may help you get moving, but they won't help you stop faster on slippery roads.
Clear your vehicle before heading out. Remove snow and ice from your windshield, windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, hood and roof. Snow blowing off your vehicle can obstruct another driver's vision and create a serious hazard. Keep your headlights on when visibility is reduced.
Get your vehicle winter-ready. Have your battery, brakes, tires, heating and defrosting systems inspected. Check tire tread and pressure, replace worn windshield wipers, and keep essential fluids—including antifreeze and winter-rated windshield washer fluid—at proper levels.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with a blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, small shovel, jumper cables, first-aid kit, drinking water, snacks and a phone charger. Preparation can make a significant difference if you become stranded during a storm.
And remember: Don't crowd the plow! Snowplow operators from Erie County, our municipalities and New York State work around the clock to keep roads as safe and passable as possible. Give them plenty of room, maintain a safe following distance and never pass a plow unless it is safe and legal to do so. Snow and salt thrown by plows can also reduce visibility and damage nearby vehicles.
Before traveling in severe weather, check the forecast and road conditions. If authorities advise against unnecessary travel, take that warning seriously. If conditions deteriorate while driving, find a safe place to stop rather than risk continuing through dangerous conditions.
Winter driving can challenge even experienced motorists, but preparation, patience and common sense can help prevent crashes and save lives.
As we head into another winter across Erie County, let's all do our part to keep our roads safe. Buckle up, slow down, give snowplows room to work and make it your priority to arrive safely.
