Oregon Public Broadcasting

For many Northwest drivers who are unaccustomed to such deep snow, the persistent snow and ice is proving a challenge for many Northwest drivers.

If you do have to head out, it’s best to follow your mother’s advice:  slow down and take it easy.  Our Salem correspondent, Chris Lehman, has some more tips.

By now you might be wishing you’d paid more attention to those winter driving public service announcements like this one.

Voice from Public Service Announcement:  “If you lose traction, and your vehicle feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down.  Don’t slam on the brakes.”

Good advice.  So what about tire chains?  They may add an extra level of safety, but they don’t make you invincible.

ODOT spokesman Dave Thompson says it’s best to keep your speed under 30 miles an hour when you have chains on.

Dave Thompson:  “If you drive faster than that, you’ll just break your chains.  When you see the chains along the side of the road, that’s because somebody was driving too fast or didn’t put them on properly and they broke.”

Also, whether you have chains on or not, the Oregon State Police advises against using cruise control in slippery conditions.  And remember, bridges and on-ramps are often the first to ice up and the last to thaw out.

Online:

ODOT’s “Winter Driving Guide” (.pdf)