Keeping citizens safe while traveling West Virginia's highways and byways is a priority for transportation and public safety officials. Motorists who use the state's roadways must also take safety measures seriously while driving, especially during inclement weather. Now that we are in the midst of the winter season, harsh weather and treacherous roads can be common. Following a few simple procedures can help reduce the chances of accidents and will ultimately save lives.

To help the state's motorists navigate the roads during the winter months, the West Virginia Department of Transportation has compiled useful tips to keep our roads as safe as possible:

REDUCE SPEED: When it snows, use your head not your feet. Slow down for wet, snowy, or icy conditions; when visibility is poor; or when conditions are changing or unpredictable. Don't turn your vehicle into an "off-road vehicle" by driving too fast for conditions.

SAFE TRAVEL AROUND SNOWPLOWS: Don't crowd the plow. Snowplows plow far and wide -- sometimes very wide. The front plow extends several feet in front of the truck and may cross the centerline and shoulders during plowing operations.

DRIVING MANEUVERS: Stopping on snow and ice without skidding requires extra time and distance. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don't have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal. Either way, give yourself plenty of room to stop.

TRIP PREPAREDNESS: Before leaving home, find out about the driving conditions. Safe drivers know the weather, and they know their limits. If the weather is bad, remember, ice and snow, take it slow or just don't go.

With these tips in mind, please take extra caution while driving. Remember, "Ice and Snow, Take it Slow!" For more winter driving tips and road conditions, please visit the West Virginia Department of Transportation's web site at www.wvdot.com or by phone at 1-877-WVA-Roads (1-877-982-7623).

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