T-L Photo/JOSIE BURKHART Drivers can stay safe on the roads this winter by following tips from experts, including slowing down when it’s snowing and staying far enough away from other drivers to have time to react on ice.

AS WINTER weather sets in, travel and transportation experts have some advice to help keep motorists safe on the road.

AAA Public Affairs Manager Kara Hitchens recommends preparing for winter weather by making sure your car is ready for the road. Check the tires, making sure there is good tread depth on them and good air pressure. She also recommends making sure the fluids in your vehicle, such as oil, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid, are all topped off.

“Your car is what’s getting you around,” Hitchens said. “You want to be sure that it’s in good condition, that it can withstand the winter weather.”

The National Highway Safety Administration also recommends having a mechanic check the car’s battery, charging system and belts because when the temperature drops, so does battery power. Gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start in the cold weather, and a hybrid or electric vehicle’s driving range may be reduced.

The NHTSA also recommends checking headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights.

Hitchens noted information from law enforcement officials indicates that many crashes are caused by faulty vehicles. She said a faulty vehicle on an icy or snowy road is a recipe for a crash to happen.

Drivers should be aware that bridges and overpasses tend to freeze and get icy before other road surfaces because cold air passes under them.

Although road crews go out and do their best to clear ice and snow, Hitchens said they may clear a road during the day that will refreeze at night. Black ice can form and be dangerous, especially in the morning.

Hitchens recommends driving appropriately for the road conditions by slowing down if it’s snowing and being aware of what the weather will be like when heading out to drive.

When traveling long distances for the holidays, Hitchens says to prepare for the road trip by looking at what conditions you may encounter, such as bad weather, construction or detours.

Hitchens encourages people to call AAA if they are a member and need roadside assistance. Stranded motorists also can reach out to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. She recommends carrying an emergency kit with items to help keep you and your passengers comfortable if you become stranded in your car. These might include water, snacks and blankets.

In the event of an emergency where a driver is stuck in winter weather, people should stay with their cars, put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on. Guard against the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning by making sure the exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and only running the car sporadically, just long enough to stay warm, the NHTSA suggests.

For parents with children in car seats, be aware that heavy coats can interfere with proper harness fit on a child in a car seat. Instead, dress them in thin, warm layers and place blankets and coats around them for extra warmth after the harness is snug.

“Slow down and give yourself room between you and the vehicle in front of you,” Hitchens said. “If they’re sliding and skidding and you’re far enough away from them, you have time to react. But if you’re riding their bumper, you’re going to get caught in the same slide that they’re caught in and potentially cause a crash.”