Winter weather heading to Kentucky and Indiana; AAA offers driver safety tips

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As winter weather moves into Kentucky and southern Indiana, AAA is urging drivers to prepare for slippery road conditions.

Wednesday will mark the start of a couple of winter systems expected to affect the area over the next week. Cold rain showers mixed with sleet and snow are forecast for Wednesday evening.

A second system later this weekend — Saturday and Sunday — could bring a better chance for accumulating snow as it lingers longer over the region. Snowfall totals are still uncertain, but this second system is expected to have a greater impact.

“This time of year, the preventative steps you take today can go a long way toward protecting you throughout the winter season,” said Lynda Lambert, safety advisor at AAA East Central. “Weather conditions that lead to black ice, heavy snow, and slick roads mean that motorists need to be prepared, slow down, and not take any unnecessary chances.”

AAA’s winter driving advice:

• Stay home if you can.

• Leave early if you can’t stay home.

• Slow down.

• Don’t tailgate.

• Never use cruise control on slippery roads.

• If you skid, steer into the skid.

AAA’s winter preparation checklist:

• Have your vehicle’s battery tested.

• Replace worn windshield wiper blades.

• Inspect tires for proper tread and pressure.

• Carry a winter emergency kit that includes:

  • Sand or cat litter for traction

  • A small shovel

  • Flashlight

  • Ice scraper or snow brush

  • Booster cables

  • Blanket

  • Gloves or mittens

  • Flares or reflective triangles

Following these steps can help keep you safer on the roads as winter weather arrives.