Winter in Iowa includes the inevitable snow and ice, which can mean dangerous driving conditions. If you are a very experienced driver or if it’s your first year driving, it is a good time to review some proven winter driving safety tips that might help drivers avoid problems.
- Don’t rush. When roads and sidewalks are slippery, rushing to catch the bus or driving faster to make it to your destination can have disastrous results. Leave a few minutes early. Give your child and yourself plenty of time.
- Bundle up. Students need to keep warm at the bus stop. Make sure your child still has an adequate line of sight and can hear traffic and other noises.
- Watch your step. Watch where you are walking, take shorter more deliberate steps. Wear appropriate footwear.
- Be patient. School bus drivers are trained to drive in inclement weather; however, snow and icy roads can slow down even the most experienced driver. Safety is each driver’s top priority and extra time may be needed to get from stop to stop. Drive slower and increase your following distance as more stopping time is needed when roads are icy.
- Clear view of sight. Clear away snow and frost from all windows on your vehicle so that you do not have any obstructed views. Clear snow off your vehicle so that you don’t put the vehicle behind you in danger from flying snow and decreasing visibility.
- Be weather aware. Bad weather can lead to school cancellations, delays or early dismissals. Make sure your contact information is correct in PowerSchools and be sure to check local media when inclement weather is expected. Signup to get alerts.
- Watch for school buses. Passing a stopped school bus from behind as it loads or unloads children is illegal. Don’t put our children at risk.
- Everyone plays a role in ensuring students get to school safely, so please use caution, be prepared, remain alert, and adjust driving behavior.
