Cold weather driving tips ... just in case ...

Yes, yes, I know it is cold and wet around Laredo for a Thursday. Sure, it's not as bad as other parts of the state and United States, too.
Does it hurt, though, to receive a few reminders around driving in cold weather conditions? Probably not.
Thanks to the folks at AAA Texas for these tips:

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During December, January, February and occasionally March, Texas from time-to-time experiences snowy and icy driving conditions. This week forecasters say much of the state will likely have very cold temperatures and the possibility of snow and ice in some parts of the state. It is important the driving public is reminded of the challenge of driving in adverse conditions. Keeping alert and prepared for unanticipated winter travel hazards is the key to your driving survival. AAA Texas encourages all motorists to be prepared for adverse conditions as the weather turns cold.

AAA Texas recommends motorists follow the simple guidelines below:
• Take it slow. Reducing speed and following at a safe distance is your best strategy for maintaining control of your car and ensuring that you have plenty of room to stop or react to whatever happens in front of you.
• Focus only on driving. Distraction is always dangerous, but when you’re trying to navigate icy streets and unpredictable situations, it can be especially risky. Keep both hands on the wheel, turn the radio off, stay off the phone (even if it’s hands-free), and pay attention to your driving.
• Clear your windows, head lights, tail lights, mirrors, roof, trunk, and hood before driving. Windshield wipers aren’t designed to clear wet snow or ice off your windshield and they don’t clear the entire surface.
• Plan ahead. Avoid travel during bad conditions. If you must drive, stick to daylight hours when visibility is better and more resources are available in case you get stuck. Always check on weather and road conditions before you get on the road. Charge your cell phone in advance, in case you have to call for help.
• Get your car serviced for winter conditions. Make sure tires have enough tread and are properly inflated so they’ll grip on slick roads. Check anti-freeze levels to make sure you have the right levels for your region.
• Keep a winter emergency kit in your car. Make sure you have flares, safety triangles, colored cloths to tie on your antenna, and flashlights so you can stay visible if you break down. Pack blankets and extra warm clothes, food, and water in case you get stranded.
If you do find yourself stranded out on the road, please heed the following advice to ensure you’re safe until help arrives:
• Stay in your car. Stay out of the way of other cars that may be sliding on slick roads.
• Stay warm. Keep blankets and extra warm clothes with you to stay dry and avoid hypothermia. Huddle with other passengers to maintain body heat.
• If you get stuck call for help on your cell phone. Never talk on the phone while you’re driving in bad weather.
• Run your engine and heater for a few minutes every hour if you have enough gas. Check to make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked.
• Keep a window cracked. Opening the windows allows for fresh air in case doors and windows freeze.
• Set flares outside your car. Tie bright-colored rags to your antenna so rescuers can spot you.
"A prepared driver is just as important as a prepared vehicle," says AAA Texas spokesperson Sarah Schimmer. "Getting the proper amount of rest and buckling your safety belt before taking on winter driving tasks reduces driving risks and helps prepare you for emergency situations."

Toyota's woes get worse ...

Just when you think it's safe and Toyota is taking care of business around its sticky pedal issue (which it is) ... comes this news Monday.
Kelley's Blue Book, the respected source when it comes to valuation for automobiles, dropped its resale values of Toyota autos for the second time in less than a week, according to an Associated Press story.
So the mighty proud Japanese automaker that has a plant just up Interstate 35 in San Antonio is having to regroup. Just last week, its CEO came out and apologized publicly for Toyota's troubles.

-- Joe Rutland