CHP gives bad weather driving tips

What you canÂ’t see can kill you.

That is the warning the Central Division of the California Highway Patrol.

The CHP and District Six Caltrans are encouraging motorists to prepare for fog-driving conditions.

The fog season in the Central Valley is usually during the months of November through February.

“Motorists must be alert for rapidly changing conditions in the fog,” said Chief Scott MacGregor, CHP central division commander. “Remember, what you can’t see can kill you.

“Driving too fast for visibility conditions and following too closely causes collisions in the fog,” he said. “Drivers must accept the responsibility for driving slower and safer in the fog.”

The CHP will have pace units working on major highways between Bakersfield and Modesto on foggy days when visibility is less than 500 feet.

The CHP pace units will slow vehicles to a safe speed during limited visibility conditions.

Caltrans will provide changeable message signs along Highway 99 and Interstate 5, advising of winter driving conditions such as fog and snow.

The CHP/Caltrans Central Valley Transportation Management Center will provide information to the media about weather and road conditions throughout the Valley. Motorists should tune in to local radio and television stations for up-to-date information.

Motorists are encouraged to phone the Caltrans highway information network at (800) 427-ROAD for specific highway information.

Advice

The CHP offers these fog driving tips that motorists should follow:

Drive with your headlights on low beam — it is illegal to drive with just your parking or fog lights.

Reduce your speed.

Avoid crossing traffic unless absolutely necessary.

Listen for traffic you cannot see.

Use wipers and defroster as necessary for maximum vision.

Be patient and donÂ’t pass lines of traffic.

Unless absolutely necessary, donÂ’t stop on any freeway or other heavily-traveled road.

If your car stalls or is disabled, move away from the vehicle to avoid personal injury.

Consider postponing your trip until the fog clears.

When driving in the rain, the CHP advises:

Get the feel of the road and adjust your speed accordingly.

Be sure tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated.

Wiper blades and defrosters need to be in good working condition.

When slowing or stopping, gently apply the brakes.

Drive with headlights on.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or drowsiness, leave your windows open slightly.

Wet brakes can affect braking efficiency.

Constantly be alert for signs of hydroplaning.

Driving on ice and snow:

Safe speeds on dry roads are deadly on ice and snow. Adjust your speed to match conditions. Observe speed limits.

Use driving intervals. Extra room between you and the car ahead may be the margin of safety that saves your life. Drive with at least double the distance you would allow on dry pavement.

Never apply brakes suddenly. Pump them gently to avoid locking the wheels. Use a lower gear if possible.

Smooth gentle starts are the key to success. Avoid spinning the tires. Clear all windows of snow and ice before starting out.