(image credit - CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

WINTER DRIVING

‘Take your time and try to have that confidence’; Professional driving tips for snowy Kamloops roads

Jan 19, 2024 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — Snow has the ability to make even the most confident drivers nervous, and with Kamloops getting a significant dump this week, it’s important to remember to take your time.

“Always make sure you are at a good distance away from the vehicle in front of you when you come to a stop light or red light. You want to make sure you can see both back tires touch the ground,” Henderson Driving School Owner Sylvia Henderson told CFJC Today Friday (Jan. 19). “If you are behind a semi or an ambulance or something like that, make sure you are a little further back.”

With accidents rising during winter weather, the RCMP are echoing calls for Kamloops residents to slow down and give space.

“Give yourself time and give people space. It’s very important to do that. It’s one of the biggest things that we can do to protect ourselves, to go slow and give space. Create that boundary around yourself,” added Kamloops RCMP Cpl. Crystal Evelyn.

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While human instinct is to slam on the brakes if you begin to slide, Henderson noted that won’t help you regain control of your vehicle. Despite technology in vehicles with anti-locks brakes, cadence braking can be best in winter conditions.

“Just lightly pump your brake, turn the wheel a little bit so you can turn it back into where the tire marks are,” suggested Henderson. “And just give a little bit of gas, not too much just to get that momentum going again, straighten out and you’re on your way.”

Overall, it’s a good idea for drivers to take a minute before hitting the roads to ensure they are fully prepared for the conditions.

“Relax, take a few deep breaths, even do some stretching and stuff like that — just try to calm yourself down. And if you are going to be that nervous, then make sure you leave a lot earlier, make sure the road conditions are good for you. Just take your time and try to have that confidence,” said Henderson.

It’s also important to brush off your vehicles, including your lights, so everybody on the road can clearly see you.