Winter brings out two distinct types of drivers. One driver treats the ice and snow with gentleness, and the other doesn't distinguish between winter and summer driving. There really is no trick to being a good winter driver if you and your car are prepared.

• Make sure your car is ready for winter by having the engine tuned and proper tires mounted before snow arrives;
• Even a well-maintained car can break down under severe driving conditions, so carry emergency equipment in your vehicle, including a snow shovel, battery jumper cables, bag of sand or traction pads, a towing cable, flares, a comlete set of warm clothing and boots, and blankets and candles to keep you warm if the engine will not start;
• To get your vehicle moving if it is stuck in snow or ice, rock it back and forth gently;
• Ice forms first and melts last on bridges and overpasses, where cold air gets underneath, causing the temperature to drop faster than anywhere else;
• Clean all the windows of your vehicle before starting a trip;
• Keep your car's windshield washer fluid tank full. Winter slush can temporarily blind you, especially when you are following other vehicles.

Source: Safety Sense Enterprises, Inc., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Contact your independent insurance agent for more information on auto coverages.