To minimize the dangers associated with winter driving, both the vehicle and the driver must be prepared in advance. For the driver this means approaching winter driving with the right frame of mind—always drive at a speed that matches the prevailing visibility, traffic and road conditions.

Select clothing that provides warmth, comfort and freedom of movement. Heavy garments and gloves offer warmth when outside, but after a few minutes in the car, after the engine has warmed up, they should be removed for comfort and freedom of movement. Stop the vehicle in a safe spot to remove any outdoor clothing rather than compounding a risky situation by struggling out of a heavy coat while driving. It is neither healthy nor safe to under- or over-dress before or while driving; among other things, your ability to concentrate is diminished. A zip-fastened, lined jacket and a pair of thin leather gloves are ideal for winter motoring. They give appropriate warmth, comfort and freedom of movement both inside and outside the vehicle with minimal adjustment.

To see and be seen by others requires the driver to clean all snow and ice from the entire vehicle—hood, roof, trunk, lights and windows. Snow left on any of these areas increases the possibility that visibility will be affected when the car is in motion. Before departing, start your car and turn the heater on for a minute or two before using the defroster. This will prevent moisture from fogging the windshield when warm air hits the cold glass. To prevent damage to your wiper blades or wiper motor, be sure the wipers are off before starting the engine. Try to avoid driving when visibility is poor, but if you must drive, keep your speed low, headlights on low beam, and pull off to a safe spot as soon as possible.

Correct seat position and use of protective equipment (seatbelts and sunglasses to combat glare) will aid you in seeing and performing those gentle, smooth, precise movements necessary for safe winter motoring. The correct seating position is achieved when the driver's elbows are slightly bent, and he/she can effortlessly reach the pedals, operate all controls and turn the steering wheel. The use of safety belts enhances your ability to control the vehicle in an emergency by keeping you behind the wheel.

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