“I’m Going to Be Late”

AAA encouraging motorists to delay morning commute

Given the forecast of snow overnight extending into the morning rush hour, AAA is encouraging commuters to delay the start of their day if possible and, for those who must get on the road, AAA is reminding all drivers that even a little snow can cause big headaches.

“Any time drivers can avoid being on the road when it’s snowing, even if it’s not snowing heavily, that’s going to be the safest choice,” says Amy Parmenter, spokesperson for AAA in Greater Hartford. “If you must be on the road, give yourself extra time and take it slow”.

AAA is also reminding drivers to use their headlights so they can see – and be seen – when there is limited visibility.

AAA offers the following tips for driving in snow:

1. Take it slow
2. Increase following distance
3. Drive defensively
4. Make sure you have a good tread on your tires and that they are properly inflated
5. Don't use cruise control - you always want to maintain control of your vehicle.
6. Use your headlights to increase visibility - you want to be sure that you can see and be seen
7. If you do start to skid, always LOOK and STEER in the direction you want to go.

Cold-Weather Call Volume

Given another day of extreme cold, AAA expects hundreds of dead battery calls today, just in Greater Hartford alone, along with other weather-related roadside rescue issues.  

With that in mind, AAA is encouraging all drivers to make sure they have a fully charged cellphone so they can call AAA for help if need be and, to have a fully stocked Winter Emergency Kit so they will be safe and comfortable while waiting for help to arrive.

Winter emergency kit should include:

Snow brush, scraper, de-icer, kitty litter or abrasive, small shovel, warning flare or bright triangle, blanket, flashlight with fresh batteries, first aid kit, jumper cables, water, snacks/medicine.

Motorists can download AAA’s free brochure How to Go on Ice and Snow for more tips.

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CT Mailing Address:
815 Farmington Avenue
West Hartford, CT 06119

AAA provides automotive, travel and insurance services to 58 million members nationwide and more than one million members in Connecticut.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information, visit www.aaa.com.