Winter driving advice in Jackson Hole

JACKSON, Wyo. — Winter is approaching in Jackson Hole, and with it comes dangerous driving conditions due to freezing temperatures and heavy snow.

Teton County Emergency Management has released a checklist for drivers to consider before venturing out in winter weather conditions. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) also offers winter driving tips to Wyomingites to consider or brush up on.

Know before you go

Teton County Emergency Management suggests that folks check the weather forecast, avalanche forecast and road conditions before hitting the road.

National Weather Service Riverton or the National Weather Services mobile forecast page
Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
Call 5-1-1 for road conditions or check the WYDOT website.

WYDOT’s winter driving tips:

Locked wheels and skids result when drivers jam on conventional brakes. Pumping those brakes often is required to stop safely and smoothly in slippery conditions. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, they will do the pumping automatically, so firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal will bring your vehicle to the quickest stop.
Whatever your vehicle type, it will take longer to stop in winter weather conditions. Increase your following distances to at least four seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you. To adjust your following distance, allow the vehicle ahead to pass a landmark and count the seconds until you pass the same landmark. If you reach the landmark before four seconds, you are following too closely.
Keeping your speed down on a slippery road will reduce the risk of skidding. If you begin to skid, gently turn into the skid and ease your foot off the accelerator until you regain control.
If you stop to help someone who has slid off the road or been in a crash due to ice, be careful. Park well away, and, as you help, be alert and ready to get out of the way should anyone else lose control of their vehicle at the same icy location.
Most of all, be patient when driving on ice or snow. If the vehicle in front of you spins out on an icy hill, stay in line. Wait for a snowplow to clear the way. You’ll get through much quicker.

Cars in Wyoming should also be equipped with solid winter tires and/or chains. Chain laws go into effect frequently on Teton Pass. In Wyoming, penalties for failing to follow chain laws can result in a $250 fine or a $750 fine for violations that result in a road closure.

Keep all lights free of ice and snow and use low beams when driving through blowing snow. Make sure all windows and mirrors are clear before starting a trip and remember to clean snow off shoes before getting in the car. A slippery accelerator and brake pedals are a safety hazard.

Be flexible

If storms are severe or roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel, taking an alternate route or taking public transit, Teton County Emergency Management suggests. “Commuters over Teton Pass, Snake River Canyon, Hoback Canyon and North Highway 89 between Moose and Moran should also make plans for more extended road closures.”