Hey Gang,

Well, it’s about that time again. Winter is finally upon us – offically and unofficially. How do I know? Just ask the good people of Denver! A recent early-season snowstorm blanketed the city with two feet of the white stuff, and another winter doozy scheduled to hit the Front Range today.

So folks, now that winter has arrived, it’s time to start thinking about safety. Winter can be a very dangerous time of the year for all of us if we’re not careful, especially on the roadways. The last thing you want is to be slipping and sliding all over place during a nasty snowstorm. More auto accidents occur during the wintertime than in any other season so it is extremely important to use caution and good judgment while driving.

A big reason for all the prevalance of accidents during winter is black ice. Black ice is very tricky because you can’t see it. The only indication you may have that black ice is on the road is that the road may look a little slick and shiny. So beware.

Here are a few winter driving tips that’ll hopefully keep you safely on the road and out of small claims court. You should keep these few things in mind when driving during wintry weather:

Slow Down! Drive according to road and weather conditions. Remember, the posted speed limits are for dry pavement. Just because the sign says 65 doesn’t mean you should go that fast in icy conditions.

Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving.

Leave plenty of room for stopping and brake early. It takes more time to stop when roads are wet or icy. (Check out this video clip where I found this out first-hand).

Check the news for weather and traffic reports. Your local NBC affiliate and WeatherPlus.com are always good starting points!

Watch electronic highway signs for updated traffic information.

Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows - stay at least 15 car lengths (200 feet) back and don't pass on the right. Remember, they’re out there to help make sure all of us get to our homes or to work safely.

Watch for icy surfaces on bridges, even when the rest of the road seems to be in good condition. Bridge decks will ice up first.

Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra seconds to react. So be conscious of your surroundings at all times and be ready to react.

Trucks take longer to stop, so don't cut in front of them.

Don't use your cruise control or overdrive when it's freezing (or colder). Even roads that appear clear can have isolated slippery spots and the short touch of your brakes to deactivate cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. With overdrive, as you encounter a hill your vehicle automatically accelerates or downshifts, which can cause loss of traction.

Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive helps you get going quicker but it won't help you stop any faster. All of has seen the guy in the big truck with four-wheel drive whizzing past at 60 mph during a snowstorm. While four-wheel drive does help with traction, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Don't pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump your brakes. The right way is to "stomp and steer."

Know your vehicle. Read your owners manual.

Adjust to Road Conditions. The faster your vehicle is going, the more distance it will take to turn, slow or stop.

Slow down at the first sign of rain, snow, or sleet. When the road is slippery, the vehicle's tires do not grip as well as they do on a dry road.

Allow extra time. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination when roads may be slick. Consider delaying your trip.

Drive with your headlights on.

If at all possible, do not drive when the roads are icy. If you don’t need to be on the road, the best thing you could do is stay off the streets. It may be better to just stay home, kick up your feet and make it a night with the family. Monopoly anyone?

Well there you have it. Happy Holidays and I hope this winter is a safe one for all of you!

A special thanks goes out to the Washington State Department of Transportation for helping with these driving tips.