Written by:
Kenzie Pigott | WVUGo Staff Writer
No matter where you’re going, let country roads get you there safely.
As the Fall semester comes to a close, many students are preparing to make the journey back to their hometowns. Wherever that may be for you, Winter weather can throw a wrench in your travel plans. Follow these tips to help make sure your travels are safe and you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature has to give.
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Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
If you’re traveling home, you likely already know what roads you take to get there. If conditions are going to be icy or snowy while you’re traveling, make sure that you account for time and road conditions. Interstates or Highways are probably a safer bet, since they usually get more traffic and will get salted more frequently than, say, a back road. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to drive slowly, no matter how you decide to get home.
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Make Sure Your Vehicle is in Good Shape Before You Leave
Make sure you check your gas, oil, tires, the works on your car before it’s time to hit the road. It’s better to know if something needs replaced before you start driving and could potentially get stuck or worse.
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Create a Winter Weather Car Kit
Having a “survival guide” can help you in the event that you have an accident or get stuck in the snow. Depending on where you are, it may not always be easily accessible to a tow truck or family member to bail you out. Keep a small container in your car with things like an extra phone charger, bottles of water, snacks, blankets, and hot hands. If you have to wait a while, you won’t be hungry or thirsty.
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Always let Someone Know When You are Driving and Where
Whether it’s your family or a close friend, always let someone know when you will be driving in dangerous conditions. In the event that something goes wrong, this person will know your route and be able to call for help if you’re unable to.
Driving in snowy and icy weather is a challenge for even the most experienced drivers, especially around the hills of West Virginia. Make sure that you’re staying safe no matter where you go.
We hope you enjoy your break, and country roads will lead you home next year!
About the Author
Kenzie has been a senior writer for the WVUGo Media Team since August 2019. She
is pursuing her degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with focuses in Advertising,
Public Relations, Creative Writing and Interactive Media Design and anticipates
graduating in May of 2020.
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