WINTER SAFE DRIVING TIPS SAFE COMMUNITIES COALITION OTTER TAIL COUNTY .Clear snow andice from windows lights the hood, and the ro before driving .Leave plenty of room for stopping. Don't try to out drive the conditions. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement Know the current road conditions. Call 5-1-1 from your cell phone or land- line for current road conditions at your location. Brake early and correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions. .Be wary of bridge decks. They freeze first, making them more dangerous than the approach road. Exit ramps sometimes have less anti-icing material than the main line. Be aware of this when exiting the highway Don't use "cruise control" driving in wintry conditions. Even roads that look clear can have sudden slippery spots. Using your brake on these spots will deactivate cruise control, possibly causing you to lose control of your vehicle Many 4x4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles. This means it takes vehicle. Be wary of your 4x4 vehicles traction. Look further ahead in traffic than normal. .Trucks are heavier than cars, making their brake time slower. Avoid cutting quickly in front of them. Dont crowd the plow. Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows. Stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the right. Remember to slow down and always wear your seat belt. .Motorists should always carry a winter survival kit in their vehicle. Sponsored by the Otter Tail County Highway Department