Ames is under a Winter Storm Advisory until tomorrow, which means drivers should be taking extra caution when getting into their vehicle. Here are some tips you can follow to keep you safe on the roads.

Don’t overestimate your vehicle.

Cars with four-wheel drive have better traction in more severe conditions. However, this does not mean cars with four-wheel drive have top-notch brakes. No matter what you are driving, it is important to brake sooner than normal, so as to not hit someone else on the road. If you have doubts about how much your car can handle, CyRide is another alternative to driving.

Pay attention.

Allow plenty of space between you and the car in front of you, and be sure to look ahead for stoplights, stop signs and curves.

Allow yourself more time.

If you absolutely have to use your vehicle to get somewhere, allow yourself enough time to get to your destination. Getting to class or work on time is not a good enough reason to put your life, or someone else’s in danger. Driving too fast also decreases the amount of time you have to react in the event of a crash. If you are going to be late, an easy solution is to email your professor or contact your boss.

Stay calm.

When the snow is falling, there is no need to panic. If you have to drive somewhere, take your time and avoid slamming on your brakes. If you slam on your brakes on snowy or icy roads, you could easily lose control of your car and get into an accident.

If you must, stay home.

If you don’t have to leave your dorm, apartment or house for anything, don’t. Even if you are a confident driver in the snow, not everyone else is. Stay inside, get some homework done or binge-watch Netflix with some popcorn and hot chocolate.

For more information and tips on safe driving visit the AAA Exchange Website.