Drive safely in winter weather

by Tech. Sgt. Daryl L. Allen
Crime prevention manager

With Germany firmly in the grip of winter, the 86th Security Forces would like to provide you some winter driving and traffic tips to guide you through the winter months.

In CY 2011, there were a total of 372 reported traffic accidents. In order to get this number down, drivers must first be a cautious, considerate driver.
Drivers must avoid creating any situation that may provoke another motorist to operate their vehicles erratically. 

Inattentive driving, driving too fast for conditions and speeding are the primary reason for a majority of traffic accidents.   

Below you will find a few traffic safety tips to help you:
1. Remove snow and ice from windshield prior to driving.
2. Remove snow and ice from tires.
3. Ensure you have good tread on your tires and they are appropriate for the season.
4. Obey all posted traffic signals, signs or traffic signals from traffic officials.
5. Accelerate slowly and do not drive aggressively.
6. Increase your following distance and utilize your seatbelts.
7. Approach bridges, shaded spots, overpasses and turns slowly.
8. Prior to travels, ensure you have emergency numbers (i.e. roadside assistance, security forces, Polizei, etc).

The above list is not all inclusive. Ensure you follow all traffic safety rules. Statistics have shown that your chances of being involved in an accident are increased significantly when you choose to disregard the rules of the road by being inattentive, speeding or disobeying traffic signals. Most importantly, accidents cause injuries, damage to property, undue stress, and inconvenience or even death. Your best defenses against those who aren’t paying attention is to buckle your seatbelt. 

Travel safe and follow all the rules of the road. Your life and the lives of others could depend on it.