Extreme cold can affect vehicle function. Be sure to travel with a full tank of gas and pack a winter survival kit. If you become stranded, it is safest to remain with your vehicle.
Motorists are urged to evaluate the need to travel in extreme conditions. If you must travel, be sure to monitor road conditions and Iowa DOT snowplow locations by using the winter driving resources listed under the travel section of the Iowa DOT’s website: iowadot.gov. Information will also be posted to the Iowa DOT's Facebook page (facebook.com/iowadot) and Twitter account (@iowadot).
If you are driving
- Make sure every person in the vehicle is properly buckled up.
- Focus your attention on the driving task and slow down.
- Do not use cruise control.
- Put your mobile phone away so you are not tempted to talk or text while driving.
- Keep a safe distance from vehicles in adjacent lanes as strong wind gusts could push a vehicle outside its lane of travel.
- Put a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead in case sudden driving maneuvers are necessary.
- Take extra care if driving a high-profile vehicle such as a truck, van, or sports utility vehicle, or when towing a trailer, as these vehicles are more prone to be pushed or even flipped by wind gusts.
- Your vehicle’s headlights are a valuable asset when driving in winter weather. Turn them on to see and be seen.
- If conditions are severe enough to prevent safe driving, postpone your trip; or if en route, identify the nearest safe place to pull off the roadway, such as a rest area, truck stop, motel, or other traveler service until the wind subsides and road conditions improve.
- Keep your windshield clear of ice.
- Allow extra travel time.
Winter driving is always unpredictable, so be prepared for the unexpected.
