Winter Road Rules

Plan ahead to stay safe this season

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

Winter is just around the corner. When it comes to driving, now is the time to get ready for the slippery conditions and frigid weather that comes with winter in Wisconsin. Get ready to explore our great outdoors this winter by ensuring you and your vehicle are prepared for winter road conditions.

PACK AN EMERGENCY KIT

Consider carrying the following items in your vehicle in case you become stranded:

• Blankets or sleeping bags

• Hats, warm socks, gloves/mittens

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First-aid kit

• Booster cables

• Windshield brush/scraper and shovel

• Drinking water and non-perishable food

• Sand or cat litter for traction

• Cell phone charger

• Check the condition of your battery, antifreeze, lights and cooling system.

• Replace worn windshield wipers and fill up washer fluid.

• Check tires and spares for pressure, tread and damage. Fill each tire to the manufacturer’s recommendation and replace when you can see President Lincoln’s head if you insert a penny in the tread.

• Remove snow and ice from the windows, lights, roof and hood.

iStock/AleksandarNakic

Be sure to pack some safety essentials before hitting the road this winter.

BEFORE YOU GO

Make sure your vehicle is working properly before getting behind the wheel. Winter conditions can cause wear and tear, so maintain these things regularly:

• Keep your fuel tank at least half-full to prevent lines from freezing and provide extra fuel if you get stranded. Make sure electric vehicles are fully charged.

• Check the condition of your battery, antifreeze, lights and cooling system.

• Replace worn windshield wipers and fill up washer fluid.

• Check tires and spares for pressure, tread and damage. Fill each tire to the manufacturer’s recommendation and replace when you can see President Lincoln’s head if you insert a penny in the tread.

• Remove snow and ice from the windows, lights, roof and hood.

DRIVE WITH CAUTION

Winter weather is a regular part of life in Wisconsin, but it can lead to dangerous road conditions. Last season, winter weather contributed to almost 19,000 crashes in the state.

If possible, stay off the roads during severe winter weather and wait until conditions improve. Staying home eliminates the risk of a crash and helps keep the roads clear for first responders and snowplow drivers.

When you are out, follow these winter driving tips:

• If you must travel, check 511wi.gov or download the 511 WI app for updates on road conditions or incidents along your route.

• Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time and following distance, and reduce your speed.

• Turn on your headlights anytime conditions make it difficult to see.

• Leave room for snowplows and move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles.

• If you get stranded or slide off the road, stay in your vehicle with your seat belt on and call for help. Getting out of the vehicle in traffic is very dangerous.

• As always, buckle up and put down your phone while driving. Every trip, every time.

LEARN MORE

For more from WisDOT on winter driving, visit dnr.wi.gov/tiny/1996.

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