In some areas of Connecticut, winter weather is already here, creating hazardous conditions for even the most experienced drivers. The personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Conti & Levy in Torrington have some winter driving tips to help you get through the season safely:

• Never use your cruise control on slippery surfaces, especially ice and snow.
• If it's safe to do so, avoid using your parking brake in harsh weather conditions, because the mechanism can freeze in place.
• Get winter tires with deeper treads to help you maintain control of your vehicle.
• Keep a blanket, food, water, a flashlight, batteries, and emergency flares in your trunk in case you get stranded during a storm.
• Always accelerate slowly, and leave extra space for braking on icy, snowy roads.
• Allow more space between you and other cars, ideally eight to 10 seconds.
• Avoid stopping completely when you can. Getting your car in motion from a full stop requires more energy, which can cause your wheels to spin and get stuck.
• Reduce your speed, even if you think it might be safe to drive faster. Driving slowly will give you time to respond to unexpected hazards.
• Don't stop on hills, and don't try to power your way up, either. Build up momentum on the flat part of the road to carry you to the top.
• Avoid driving in serious winter conditions, if at all possible.

The Law Offices of Conti & Levy offer a wide range of services in a variety of practice areas, from education law to criminal defense. Visit their website to learn more, or call (860) 482-4451 to schedule a consultation today.