RNC reminds motorists to be prepared for Winter Driving

The RNC is reminding motorists to be prepared for winter driving. The reminder comes as western Newfoundland got a taste of winter weather earlier this week.

On Tuesday, the RNC in the Corner Brook Region responded to numerous traffic-related complaints, including multiple collisions and a number of vehicles that had become stuck in heavy snow on the Trans-Canada Highway.

A section of the roadway had to be closed for several hours to allow officers and other responding agencies to clear abandoned vehicles to make way for plows to operate.

Safe winter driving habits include:

• Allow extra travel time and driving according to the conditions in your area.

• Clearing snow and ice from your vehicle, including windows, lights, mirrors and plate, as well as from the top of your vehicle.

• Increase your following distance to allow time to stop on slippery roads.

• Keep a shovel and road salt in your trunk in case your vehicle becomes stuck.

• Have your vehicle serviced regularly to ensure it is in good working order.