AAA Western and Central New York is reminding motorists to be prepared as another snowstorm approaches. Parts of the region could see an additional 1 to 3 feet of snow between Tuesday and Thursday according to the National Weather Service. Limiting travel, keeping essential items in your car, and having a plan if you need roadside assistance are recommended.
AAA has tips for motorists as they prepare for additional snow and icy conditions:
- Continue to obey any driving bans or restrictions that are in place. The fewer vehicles on the roads, the easier it is for plows to clear snow and for tow trucks to respond to those in need. If you can stay home, please do so.
- Go slow on ice and snow! Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Give yourself a donut of space around your vehicle. Allow for proper stopping distance given the conditions.
- Pack an emergency kit with spare clothing, blankets, cell phone chargers, charging banks, and a shovel.
AAA anticipates high call volume:
- If you need AAA emergency road service, a Digital Roadside Request is the fastest way to request service. Simply go to AAA.com/RoadService or download the AAA Mobile App. To place a call, dial 1-800-AAA-HELP.
- Please make sure your car is brushed off and free of snow for service. Also, make sure your street and driveway are cleared before requesting service.
- Use caution when shoveling heavy snow. Request assistance as needed.
AAA has extra crews on the phones and on the roads to assist. Even with the additional resources, response may be hampered in some situations as drivers continue to navigate snowy roads.
AAA WCNY is seeing a mix of calls for cars off the road, cars stuck in driveways in heavy snow, and cars experiencing battery issues as temperatures drop. Monday, call volume was up 23 percent over an average January weekday, with battery calls up 42 percent. A car battery loses a third of its power in freezing temperatures. Motorists should be aware of signs that show a car battery is nearing the end of its life:
- Vehicle cranks slowly when trying to start
- Grinding, clicking or buzzing when the ignition is turned on
- Vehicle has stalled
- Headlights dim when idling, but brighten when the driver revs the engine
- Battery is more than three years old
AAA is prioritizing calls and is asking those safe at home to please be patient while crews respond to stranded motorists. Anyone in an emergency situation should call 911.
As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 860,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com or www.NewsRoom.AAA.com or download our mobile app at www.AAA.com/Mobile.
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