It may only be early November, but some parts of Ohio have already seen signs of winter. The frigid temperatures, and ice or snow covered roads that motorists must contend with throughout the state are on the way.

While safety should always be a priority when traveling in a motor vehicle, increased attention to safe driving techniques is critical during winter months. I want to share some tips to help keep Ohio roadways safe in the winter months to come.

An excellent way to check travel conditions statewide is through the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s toll-free road and weather conditions hotline, 1-888-2-OH-ROAD (1-888-264-7623). Also, remember to call the Patrol toll-free at 1-877-OH-PATROL to report disabled vehicles.

Proper vehicle maintenance and preparedness for winter travel can go a long way toward safe driving.

Winterize your vehicle and follow the suggested manufacturer maintenance schedule. In addition, check the wipers, tires, lights, and fluid levels regularly.

Make sure the brakes and transmission are working properly, and lubricate the doors and trunk locks frequently with a lock lubricant to prevent freezing.

Before leaving on a trip, tell a friend, relative, or co-worker of travel plans including destination, anticipated travel routes, and expected arrival time. Then, telephone that same individual once arriving at the destination.

Unfortunately, despite the most careful planning, vehicle breakdowns can and do occur. There are several things to do in the event of a vehicle breakdown to get help and stay safe.

Pull the vehicle as far off the road as possible, open the hood, and turn on hazard lights. Place a "Help" sign in the rear window, and stay in your vehicle while waiting for help to arrive.

Do not accept a ride from a stranger. Instead, ask that individual to notify a law enforcement organization of the situation. Stay in the vehicle while waiting for help to arrive. Your greatest personal danger during a vehicle breakdown is being hit by passing cars. Leave the vehicle only with a law enforcement officer in a marked patrol car.

Also, do not walk in search of help during a winter storm. The risk is too high of getting caught in the storm, or becoming forced into another dangerous situation. It is a much better and safer idea to wait in the vehicle until assistance arrives.

Regardless of where you are in Ohio, at some time during the winter driving will be required on roadways covered with ice or snow. Driving on these roads, or during inclimate weather can be particularly hazardous.

Greater following distances and slower speeds are vital during winter months. The "two second rule" for following distances does not give you enough reaction space on slippery roadways where stopping distances can triple because of adverse conditions.

Accelerate slowly to avoid traction loss and the subsequent loss of control on ice and snow covered surfaces. Pass with care because passing lanes are not typically maintained as well as driving lanes during bad weather.

Ice on the roads may not always be visible, but the smallest patch can lead to big problems. Should the vehicle begin to skid, resist the temptation to apply the brakes. Instead, take your foot off the gas pedal and steer the vehicle in the direction of the skid.

Remember to always wear your safety belt. It only takes a couple of seconds to buckle up, but it could save your life. A skid can quickly result in a complete loss of control of your vehicle, and even lead to a potential injury-causing crash. Wearing a safety belt is the best way to reduce the risk of a serious injury or death as a result of a motor vehicle crash.

It is a good idea to keep a winter car kit in your vehicle in case problems arise. Your winter car kit should include the following items: jumper cables; flares or roadway reflectors; flashlight and extra batteries; windshield washer fluid; small shovel; ice scraper; antifreeze; flat tire fixer; blanket; non-perishable food, candle; matches; and first-aid kit.

The best advice of all for winter driving is to simply slow down and avoid unnecessary risks. When considering a trip during a winter storm as yourself, "Is this trip really necessary?"

If the trip cannot be delayed or canceled, be sure to check on road and weather conditions along the route of travel before departing. Remember to dial toll-free 1-888-2-OH-ROAD for updates on driving conditions before setting out on trips throughout Ohio this winter.