CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – During the winter season, it’s important to take certain precautions on Tennessee and Kentucky roads while driving in wintry conditions (snow, ice, etc.).

A winter storm moving through the mid-state Wednesday evening may bring up to an inch of snow and ice to the Clarksville-Montgomery County area. Thursday morning travel may be impacted.

Kentucky State Police recently released the following tips to help keep drivers safe during winter weather:

  • Avoid travel unless necessary when winter weather is in your area.
  • Slow down.
  • Always wear your seat belt.

Driving Considerations

  • Leave early – allow more travel time; expect delays.
  • Increase distance between vehicles – it takes significantly longer to stop on snow covered or icy roadways.
  • Clear all windows on your vehicle prior to travel – having unobstructed vision is vital to avoid running off of the road or having a collision.
  • Turn on your vehicle’s headlamps. Remove any dirt, mud or snow.
  • Use caution on bridges and overpasses as they are susceptible to freezing before roadways.
  • Avoid using cruise control – cruise can cause the vehicle’s wheels to continue turning on a slippery surface when speed needs to be decreased.

Be Prepared

  • Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas in the event you are stranded for an extended period of time.
  • Charge your cell phone prior to departure.
  • Take a blanket.
  • Notify a family member or a friend of your travel plans prior to departure – if your travel is interrupted, someone will know.

Collision Information

    • Be patient – bad weather also limits the capabilities of law enforcement officers and emergency crews and increases response time. Also, keep in mind that they will be experiencing a high volume of requests for service.
    • Attempt to move your vehicle out of the roadway if you are involved in a minor, non-injury traffic collision; especially if you are in a dangerous area such as a curve or a blind hill.
    • If your vehicle is stranded or wrecked but not in the roadway, attempts to recover your vehicle will have to wait until conditions improve for safety considerations.

For weather updates visit the ClarksvilleNow Weather page, follow us on Facebook and download the ClarksvilleNow app to receive severe weather alerts.