WACO, Texas — AAA is sharing tips to get you to your destination safe during the next few days of extreme winter weather.
The organization said winter storms and bad road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter.
Daniel Armbruster with Triple A says avoiding the roads if possible and packing an emergency kit in your vehicle are important if your car breaks down in the cold.
"That includes extra blankets, gloves, hats, clothes for you and your passengers," Armbruster said. "And don’t forget about your pets. Also, bottled water would be something you want to consider as well."
Armbruster also said that while driving in a snow storm or blizzard, if you can’t see 10 feet in front of you it’s important to slow down and pull to the side until things clear up.
"Reduce your speed if there’s any kind of precipitation on the roadway," Armbruster said. "Getting there alive versus getting there in a hurry is important, getting in a hurry is what causes most crashes we see in winter weather."
Additionally, reducing speed can not only lower the chance for a crash, but also gives drivers ample time to react if they, or other drivers lose traction on the road.
Above all, Armbruster said that if you don’t have to be on the roads to stay home.
Also on KCENTV: