As 2015 Blizzardmania approaches Massachusetts, Massautoquote.com offers the best safety tip for Blizzard driving: DON’T DRIVE! … but if you have to, here are some Storm Driving Safety Tips brought to us by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation:

• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights – even the hood and roof- before driving
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Pay attention don’t try to out drive the conditions. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Know the current road conditions. Call 511 from your cell phone or any of the following from either your cell phone or landline phone.
  • Metro Boston: (617) 986-5511
  • Central Mass: (508) 499-5511
  • Western Mass: (413) 754-5511
• Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
• Bridge decks freeze first. Due to the difference in the exposure to air, the surface condition can be worse on a bridge than on the approach road.
• Exit ramps are an even greater challenge during the winter since they may have received less anti-icing material than the main line. Be aware of this when exiting the highway.
• Don’t use the “cruise control” option driving in wintry conditions. Even roads that appear clear can have sudden slippery spots and the slightest touch of your brakes to deactivate the cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle. Remember that, if you are driving a four wheel drive vehicle, the vehicle may help you get going quicker but it won’t help you stop any quicker. Many 4×4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle’s traction.
• Look further ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by cars and trucks will alert you quicker to problems and give you a split-second extra time to react safely.
• Remember that trucks are heavier than cars. Trucks take longer to safely respond and come to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet and don’t pass on the right. (See additional information below.)
• Most importantly please remember to SLOW DOWN! Also, seat belts should be worn at all times – it’s the law.