YORK, Pa. — Central Pennsylvania is expecting plowable snowfall this weekend and young drivers may have to navigate the challenges of a snowy road for the first time.
“You have to be prepared for every type of situation out on the road,” said Doug Truscott, the owner and instructor of Doug Truscott Driving School.
Truscott has taught driving for more than 20 years, preparing students for whatever they might experience behind the wheel, including snowy roads.
“Knowing that it’s not only their life on the line, but you’re out on the road with all the other people and putting their lives on the line,” Truscott said.
Truscott says the best way young drivers can stay safe is to avoid driving when it isn’t necessary.
“If you don’t have to drive in those conditions, don’t, that’s the easiest thing.”
But Jennifer Kuntch from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation says that’s not always an option.
“Student drivers or drivers with a permit have to drive for a minimum of five hours in inclement weather to qualify for a license,” Kuntch said.
Truscott, therefore, encourages parents to get involved.
“Parents need to really get [young drivers] out under a controlled environment and show them that when you’re on snow and ice and you hit your break too hard, you’re going to slide,” Truscott said.
Knowing road conditions can also help keep young drivers safe.
“You always have to be looking up the road in anticipating what’s coming and adjust for it now,” Truscott added.
Drivers are also encouraged to not power up hills to avoid losing traction control.
Checking a car's break can also prevent a vehicle from sliding before coming to a complete stop.