Dashing through feet of snow, Buffalo natives know that the only way to escape blistering winds and slushy roadways is to plan a vacation on a far away beach. Winter driving conditions can be extremely unforgiving and make even that early morning caffeine stop a treacherous one.
"It is possible that you could get stuck on the thruway for hours or even days," said Michael Formanowicz, a driver programs manager for the American Automobile Association (AAA). "These occurrences have made headlines in the paper and appeared on the news plenty of times in past years."
Formanowicz advises winter drivers to keep their vehicle stocked with plenty of tools that may provide assistance during these kinds of worse case scenarios.
Some students may already know enough to store an extra blanket in the trunk and keep their mobile devices working; however, many will overlook other handy, easy-to-pack items.
Winter drivers should make sure that they have extra clothing, a first aid kit and tools to get out of an emergency.
"An item that some of us may have never guessed-bags of kitty litter or sand," Formanowicz said. "It can come in handy because if you get stuck, putting abrasive material around your tires may be the key to getting you out."
Other items that may appear to be obvious, but are easily forgotten, are granola bars and candy bars at the ready in case unexpected weather causes unexpected stops. Winter drivers can never be too prepared and should always expect the unexpected.
According to Formanowicz, knowing which kind of tire to purchase plays a vital role in preparing for the winter season.
Tires are the most crucial part of vehicle inspection and students should be getting it done before the snow starts.
"If you are a skier and find yourself frequently driving up to ski country, then what we refer to as 'snow tires' are your best option," Formanowicz said. "These are also the best type of tires for those who live near the lake or in an area where snowfall occurs regularly."
It's important to never mix radial tires with other types because a car needs the same grip on all four wheels to have good traction. When shopping for tires, students should either purchase four radials or not purchase them at all.
In terms of tire tips, it's also essential to beware that tire pressure correlates to air temperature.
"A 10 degree drop in air pressure means a one psi [tire pressure] drop in the air pressure in the tire," Formanowicz said. "Drivers should keep this in mind when checking that their tires are properly inflated."
Marilys Colon Vega, a junior business major, is a native of Puerto Rico and more familiar with ocean waves than with falling snow.
According to Vega, the weather conditions are only part of the equation when it comes to winter driving. The people who don't drive safely are the ones who make it challenging in icy conditions.
"I hate that my chances of getting in a car accident sky rocket because of other crazy drivers that don't respect the conditions of the road," Vega said. "Being in a small Jetta, I get scared of huge trucks that pass me on the highway."
Danielle Bucella, a senior communication and history major, has lived in Buffalo her whole life and believes that many drivers are simply unwise in their decision-making process. Some choose to ignore the news, which adds more drivers to the snow-covered roads, when everyone should be staying indoors.
"In Buffalo, you really need to listen to the news," Bucella said. "If there's a driving ban, stay home."
