With Idahoans braving the winter cold and trekking on frozen roads, AAA Idaho shared what commuters can expect next time the gas light turns on, as well as some safety tips for winter driving.
AAA said in a news release that, as of Tuesday, the average price Idahoans will see at the pump is $3.04 which is seven cents less than one week ago and around 32 cents less than a month ago. Idaho is ranked 20th in the country for most expensive fuel, according to AAA.
Tips for snow driving, AAA shared a list of their recommendations:
- Don't use cruise control during bad weather. Even adaptive cruise control is designed for bare pavement and may not help you slow down or stop in time to avoid a crash.
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes – there is often a space between lanes where snow and ice will accumulate even after vehicles have warmed up the rest of the road.
- Avoid sudden braking and acceleration. Try to brake and accelerate before and after making a turn.
- Bundle errands when conditions are better so that fewer emergency trips are necessary during bad weather.
- Clear away ice and defrost windows completely before hitting the road.
AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde said the best action to take when the weather gets bad is to stay home.
But for those needing to hit the road, Conde said that in addition to watching your speed and leaving greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, he advises drivers have a back-up plan just in case.
"Consider keeping a bag of sand or kitty litter in your car, along with the more traditional traction control devices like chains or tire socks, just in case you do get stuck," Conde said.
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