Senator Lanza Offers Tips for Driving During Storms

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for New York City from 6 AM Friday, 2/8, to 1 PM Saturday, 2/9, with 10-14 inches of snow expected. Strong winds, heavy snow, and moderate to heavy rain will accompany the storm system, with the heaviest snow arriving early Saturday morning. 

Senator Lanza advises drivers to take extra caution and only travel when
necessary during the storm. Some of the most important tips for safe winter
driving include:

· Never follow a snowplow too closely or attempt to pass one. Remember
that the highway ahead of the plow is usually snow-covered;
· Adjust speed for road conditions and maintain a safe distance from
other vehicles;
· Schedule extra time for winter travel and be patient during ice and
snow removal operations;
· Assume that bridge surfaces are slippery, as they freeze more quickly
than road surfaces;
· Watch for black ice, which can be difficult to see but makes
conditions slippery when pavement temperatures are below freezing;
· Have a cell phone handy, if possible, but do not text while driving;
distracted driving is illegal and becomes even more dangerous during
storm events;
· Never venture from your vehicle if snowbound;
· Equip your car with emergency supplies including sand, shovel,
flares, booster cables, rope, ice scraper, portable radio,
flashlight, blankets and extra warm clothes;
· Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and
estimated time of arrival; and
· Keep calm and do not panic in case of a vehicle breakdown, accident,
or if you become snowbound