(FORT WAYNE)- With snow and bitter cold creating hazardous driving conditions, Indiana State Police are urging motorists to rethink how they travel during winter weather and to leave extra time to get where they're going safely.
The most common problem officers report during winter storms is drivers moving too fast and assuming all-wheel and 4-wheel drive technology will save them.
Tire condition is another big factor in winter crashes. Tires with poor tread or improper inflation struggle to grip snow- and ice-covered roads, making it harder to stop or steer when conditions deteriorate.
State police are also reminding drivers to give snowplows plenty of room to work. Plow operators must slow down to clear roads safely, and tailgating or passing them too closely only increases the risk of crashes for everyone.
Before heading out, police recommend drivers make sure their vehicles are winter-ready, including checking tire pressure, batteries, windshield wipers and washer fluid. Officers also encourage keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle in case of a breakdown or slide-off.
Once on the road, drivers should dress for the weather, clear all snow and ice from windows and lights, increase following distance, brake gently and avoid cruise control on slick pavement.