Police give driving tips for potential snow event

The Hoover Police Department is warning citizens to keep the following driving tips in mind if travel is necessary during the upcoming winter storm Wednesday. 

1. Wear your seatbelt.

2. Reduce distraction inside the vehicle. Texting, talking on the phone or to other passengers, adjusting the radio, drinking and driving and more can limit the ability to drive safely.

3. Decrease your speed. Speed limits are set for ideal conditions. When it is went, icy, dark or heavy traffic, reduce your normal speed no matter what street you are on, especially on the interstate.

4. Do not tailgate. In ideal conditions, the minimum following distance is for every 10 mph, 20 feet of distance.

5. Keep lights on in the rain, sleet or snow. 

Though the department encourages drivers to follow these directions if they must drive, they urge citizens to stay off of the roads unless there is an emergency.

"This is for those who must drive in inclement weather," Officer Brian Hale said. "If they don't have to get out in it, don't."

For more information, visit hooverpd.com.