Don’t Make These Monumental Mistakes in Montana During the Winter

Old man winter has officially arrived in Montana, and we have some important advice for drivers.

If you've lived in Montana for a decent amount of time, you probably already know how treacherous driving conditions can get. Let's face it, winter in Montana is downright brutal, and it's going to get worse. Experts are predicting a harsh winter with frigid temperatures and a lot of snow.

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In the past, we've discussed the importance of preparing for winter travel in Montana. It's vital to put together a winter emergency travel kit if you're planning on taking any long road trips this winter. If you're not used to driving in winter conditions, it can be intimidating.

It's important to give yourself extra time to reach your destination, and take it slow. During the winter, driving the speed limit is simply unsafe at times with snow and ice on the road.

A good pair of studded snow tires or all-season tires is a must. If the tread on your tires is low, it's a good idea to replace them soon. Dressing appropriately for winter conditions will also help you survive winter in Montana. Here's a list of items to help keep you warm.

Don't Make These Monumental Mistakes During the Winter in Montana

• Don't Slam on Your Breaks - This is really important. You should NEVER slam on your brakes when roads are slick. Road conditions in Montana can change quickly. You should apply moderate pressure to your brake pedal to test traction and avoid sliding.
• Clear Snow From Your Vehicle - Before you hit the road, use an ice scraper or brush to completely remove snow from your vehicle. Don't just clear a tiny spot in your windshield. Snow left on your vehicle can be hazardous to other drivers.
• NEVER use Cruise Control - It's important to not use cruise control unless the roads are dry. You need to be in full control of acceleration and braking. If there's snow and ice on the road, don't use cruise control.