Driving on snowy or icy roads requires special attention
to safety. Although it's impossible to have ideal road conditions
365 days a year, there are certain precautions you can take
to make winter driving safer. Here are some tips and suggestions
to help you get ready for the hazards of winter. And check the links at the bottom of this page for information on MoDOT Plowing Priorities and tips on shoveling your driveway.
Before the Trip
- Winterize your car with fresh antifreeze, a good battery, a properly operating exhaust system and oil that will withstand the rigors of cold weather.
- If possible, avoid driving until the roads are safe and passable. You don't want to slide off the road, and we don't want to plow around disabled vehicles.
- Do a thorough pretrip inspection of your vehicle, paying special attention to your tires, brakes, windshield wipers and windshield wiper fluid.
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Equip Your Vehicle With:
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Necessary medications
- Blankets and/or sleeping bags
- Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear
- A small sack of sand to use for traction under your wheels
- A small shovel
- Booster cables
- Small tools - pliers, wrench, screwdriver
- A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
- Nonperishable foods
- Bottled water
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During the Trip
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Obey speed limits; don't speed.
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Use common sense, and adjust your speed and following distance
to suit driving conditions
.
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Give snowplows plenty of room, and don't
pass them.
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Always wear your seat belt.
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Remember that driving is most dangerous
when temperatures are near 32 degrees.
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Watch for other vehicles having problems
with road conditions.
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Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean;
keep your lights on.
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Don't pass other vehicles on or near
bridges.
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Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
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If you don't feel comfortable driving, pull off of the highway and
park at the first safe place.
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If You're Trapped in
Your Car
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Stay in the vehicle. Don't leave to
search for help. It's easy to become disoriented and
lost in blowing and drifting snow.
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Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly
colored cloth on the antenna.
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Run the engine for about 10 minutes
each hour. Run the heater and turn on the dome light
only when the vehicle is running.
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Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow,
and open a window slightly for ventilation.
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Clap hands and move your arms and legs
occasionally. Don't stay in one position for too long.
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If more than one person is in the car,
take turns sleeping.
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Huddle together for warmth.
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Use newspapers, maps and even car mats
for added insulation.
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Call 1-888 ASK
MODOT (888-275-6636) to receive road condition updates 24 hours a day. |
| Learn more about MoDOT's
snowplowing operation and get tips on keeping your driveway
clear and winter driving by following the links below.
Traveler Information Map
Go here to see a map of road conditions for major Missouri
routes
Who's First? MoDOT's
Plowing Priorities
How does MoDOT decide whose road gets plowed first?
How to Keep Your Driveway Clear
There is a right way to shovel your driveway
Ice and Snow Promotional Materials
In Ice and Snow, Take it Slow
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