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Winter Driving Tips Offered Through CHP
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The California Highway Patrol encourages motorists to prepare for fog and winter driving conditions. The fog season in the Central Valley typically begins during the month of November and continues through February.

“Many collisions result from driving too fast, so the first and foremost tip is slow down,” said Chief Nick Norton, CHP Central Division Commander. “It’s a simple matter of physics that your vehicle can’t stop as fast or tum as accurately on wet or icy pavement.”

To help slow traffic, as resources allow, the CHP will have pace units working on major highways and interstates between Fort Tejon and Modesto on foggy days when visibility is less than 500 feet. The CHP pace units will slow vehicles to a safe speed during limited visibility conditions.

“The CHP has resources available for motorists to check in advance for highway information; a simple call to 1-800-427-7626 could save a driver a lot of time and keep them safe,” Norton added. “Drivers must accept the responsibility for driving slower and safer in the fog.”

The CHP/Caltrans Central Valley Transportation Management Center (CVTMC), the National Weather Service will provide information to the media regarding weather and road conditions throughout the Valley. Motorists should tune in to local radio and television stations for up-to-date information.

The CHP provides the following tips when traveling in winter weather:

Prepare for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get to your destination.

Make sure your gas tank is full.

Always leave ample distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

Check to see your windshield wipers are in good condition.

Don’t forget the law requires you to have your headlights on anytime the windshield wipers are operating continuously.