Important Winter Driving Safety Tips New Yorkers Forget

We may think that we know all of the rules of the road in New York state. We're going to get a fresh reminder of safety tips for road during the winter season.

The New York State Department of Transportation has not only shared helpful winter driving safety tips for drivers but also explained what certain lines on roads mean.

What Do These Lines On New York State Roads Mean?

In 2023, the New York State Department of Transportation shared helpful information on their social media platforms. They included an explanation of what lines on roads during the winter months mean within New York state.

Their post included information such as, 

"Have you noticed these lines on NY roadways before some winter storms? This is called “salt brine” and before some storms, our crews place brine on roadways to prevent ice and snow from sticking."

The NYSDOT stated that putting the salt on the roads helps to treat them before the snow hits it. 

"The melting action of the brine helps prevent snow and ice from bonding with the pavement, avoiding hard pack that is difficult to clear."

I've always noticed lines on New York state roads before a winter storm and now we know what it means. This year, the NYSDOT is once again sharing helpful info to drivers about winter driving tips.

Important Winter Driving Safety Tips New Yorkers Forget

On January 6, 2025, the New York State Department of Transportation shared important winter driving safety tips.

The NYSDOT mentioned to drivers to slow down especially when it's snowing. They also recommended drivers to not crowd any of the New York State snow plows so that they have enough room to clear roads.

The NYSDOT continued to share that residents should have emergency kits in their vehicles including flashlights, water supplies and blankets. It's also important to clear vehicles of snow and ice before driving.

Sometimes, we forget that we need to clean our vehicles off after snowfall or it's possible that we think it'll blow off on the roads. Putting your headlights on is also an important reminder from the NYSDOT.

They also suggest putting down your cell phones and pay attention to the roads. Lastly, the NYSDOT provided advice including to stay home if possible during snowy conditions.

Facebook users shared their opinions in the comment section on this post from the NYSDOT. They included,

"And good tires "

 

"I don't think a lot of people know the first one."

 

SEE MORE: What It Means When You See A Green Light On Snow Plows In New York

Should Cruise Control Be Used During Snowstorms In New York State?

The NYSDOT recommends drivers to avoid cruise control in situations where it's snowing.

AAA explained that drivers shouldnt use cruise control in rain, snow and other weather conditions. If the roads are slippery, it wont allow the vehicle's system to maintain the same speed.

AAA also shared that if there's snow or ice on the road, it could create a low traction which then cruise control could make the vehicle spin or skid during these conditions.

For more information about winter driving safety tips from the NYS DOT, follow along on their social media platforms and visit their website.

What winter driving safety tips would you recommend to New York state drivers? Tell us more below.