{"id":9663,"date":"2019-01-21T11:11:01","date_gmt":"2019-01-21T16:11:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.aupairusa.org\/au-pairs\/?p=9663"},"modified":"2020-08-19T11:12:09","modified_gmt":"2020-08-19T15:12:09","slug":"winter-driving-safety-tips-for-au-pairs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.aupairusa.org\/au-pairs\/au-pair-advice\/winter-driving-safety-tips-for-au-pairs\/","title":{"rendered":"Winter Driving Safety Tips for Au Pairs"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Winter weather can be fun but the driving takes some adjustment.
Image courtesy of Pexels<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Looks like it\u2019s going to be a long winter! The snow is coming down heavily across most of the country, and it\u2019s an important time to prepare yourself for driving on snow and ice. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe when the roads are bad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Talk to your host family.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before you drive in winter weather or snow, talk to your host parents. Every car and climate is different, so you\u2019ll need to ask them about your specific situation. If you\u2019re not yet comfortable driving in snow, let your host parents know and ask them to teach you what to do. They\u2019ll be happy to see you prioritizing safety and communication!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your Local Coordinator will also be glad to help. Don\u2019t hesitate to reach out to them for their advice and support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Slow down!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Driving too fast is the easiest way to lose control of your car in winter weather. In normal conditions, you should have a distance of three seconds between you and the car in front of you. In the winter, you should increase that distance to a full eight to 10 seconds. Yes, that does mean you have to give yourself extra time to get around, but you and your host family will be a lot safer for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know how to skid.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ice and snow can cause your vehicle to slide and skid, even if you\u2019re driving safely. If you start to skid, always remain calm and follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n