Safety Alert

The holiday season is upon us. From Halloween just yesterday for the next three months through Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah, New Years, Kwanza etc., the historical record tells us that accidents increase. Whether it’s the distraction of buying presents, the excitement of seeing family or friends, frustration about anticipated difficult relationships, or sadness about the lack of family and friends the result is more accidents. So pay attention. While driving, remind yourself to pay attention. While working, remind yourself to pay attention. You are the only one who will be there all the time and its up to you to remember to be careful, all the time.

TULE FOG
In the San Joaquin Valley, from Bakersfield to Sacramento, winter is fog time. Some years there are only a few foggy days, but other years the fog lasts for weeks at a time. They call it Tule Fog. It is usually very low lying, often just 10 feet deep, but so dense that visibility can be less than 20 feet. The wetter the winter is the more fog there will be. This year is starting out wet so assume the worst.

ICE and SNOW
Winter driving presents many hazards that are not usually found in the summer time. Here are just a few reminders. Be prepared. Check your battery, fluids, tires, wiper blades and keep your gas tank above half full. Carry emergency supplies. In snow country, carry ice scraper, food, water, blanket, shovel, tire chains, and/or studded tires, etc.

STUDDED TIRES
According to the North Dakota Department ofTransportation (NDDOT) winter driving conditions must be here already. Studded tires, used in colder climates to provide additional traction on icy roads, are permitted between October 15th and April 15th of each year. Studded tires need to be removed in the spring due to the damage they cause to the pavement. The North Dakota State Highway Patrol will be enforcing this law.

In California, if you have studded snow tires you still need to carry chains. Studded snow tires are not considered tire traction devices and may not be used in lieu of chains. Studded tires are an excellent choice for drivers who will be driving under extreme winter conditions. Small metal studs pinned into the rubber will provide additional traction on icy roads and deep snow.

So is it worth buying studable winter tires?

Studded tires dramatically increase traction when cornering and braking. You have much more control over your car when driving on studded tires. However, studded tires are not allowed in all states. California allows them but makes them pointless on the highway where chains are still required. Remember when driving with studded tires that you have an advantage in stopping over cars and trucks not equipped with studs. Sudden stops can cause a rear end collision.

When driving on pavement that isn't icy or covered with snow the metal studs may provide less traction than the rubber of your tires. So while you have improved handling under adverse conditions you may lose that advantage under good conditions. The cold can get too oppressive during the long Northern winters. It is not unusual for people to head South for a little warmth. Remember that your studded tires may be illegal in states further South, especially when you get out of the snow.