Sub-zero temps demand careful attention to driving

We should all be used to the cold by the first of February, but with a record 67 degrees Friday, it's easy to become complacent about the weather.

Get out for any length of time in today's sub-zero weather, however, and you'll be in trouble if you aren't prepared.

But because many of us travel miles to work or school, we don't have a choice about getting out on the road in cold, snowy weather.

The most important factor to consider when driving in bad weather comes down to one thing, according to Carson Fitzgerald, a program director for the Nebraska Safety Center at the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

The old "three-second rule," keeping a three-second gap between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you, is now considered a bare minimum, he said. "Four to six seconds is currently recommended for driving at night or in poor conditions," Fitzgerald said.

In fact, if you have a difficult time stopping even with a significant cushion, then you should definitely give serious consideration to getting off the road until the situation improves. A night in a motel is better than a night in the ditch, or worse yet, in the hospital.

And as for that cruise control -- shut it off. Not using the cruise control will help you stay alert, improve your reaction time and avoid over-reacting to a sudden change in conditions.

In cruise control, the first instinct is to hit the brakes to release the cruise, but that also might cause a skid.

Also, slow if necessary to let other cars pass you, but avoid the temptation to move over onto the shoulder to "make room" for them. "Surface conditions there are almost always worse than the driving lane," Fitzgerald said. "At the same time, anticipate what your options are if you have to take evasive actions."

The Nebraska State Patrol reminds motorists to take advantage of the state's automated road and weather condition system by dialing 511 or visiting www.511nebraska.org.

The patrol also offers the following advice:

* Use well traveled routes and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.

* Let others know where you are going, when you will arrive, and what route you are taking

* If you do become stranded while traveling, stay with your car until help arrives. Wind chill and freezing temperatures can be life threatening.

* If your vehicle does become stuck, run your motor sparingly and keep a window cracked to prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide.

* Carry a red flag or bandana in your car and attach to the outside to signal you are in trouble.

Be sure to include a winter weather survival kit in your vehicle as you travel. The following are some basic items to keep in your car in case you become stranded in wintry weather: Emergency first aid kit, Ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand, three pound coffee can, matches and candles blankets or sleeping bag, high energy or dehydrated foods, jumper cables, flashlight, battery operated radio, extra batteries (cold weather reduces battery strength).

Motorists in need of emergency roadside assistance can call the Nebraska State Patrol Highway Helpline when safe to do so by dialing *55 from any cell phone or 1-800-525-5555 from any landline.