A winter storm warning went into effect for much of Wisconsin this weekend. Beginning on early Saturday, November 29, the steady snowfall is expected to last well into early the following Sunday morning. Snowfall totals are predicted to be between seven to twelve inches, although some estimates see numbers closer to nineteen inches.

Typically, vehicle crashes increase on snowy days, with ‘first snow’ days seeing the highest overall rates of vehicle collisions. With this weekend seeing the first winter storm advisory of the 2025-2026 season, its. important to stay safe. Here are some of the best tips for keeping safe in hazardous winter weather.

• Before heading out on the roads, be sure to check the forecast and conditions. If possible, delay or cancel road trips when there are active snow storms.
• Completely clear the snow and ice from all of your vehicle’s windows, mirrors, lights, cameras, and the roof before driving. This is a requirement of Wisconsin law.
• Use winter tires and make sure that your tires have adequate pressure levels to ensure there is sufficient traction.
• Drive well beneath the speed limit, especially on curved roads, hills, and surfaces that are untreated.
• Increase your following distance so that you have ample time to break without skidding or sliding. 6 seconds is usually recommended for snow covered roads.
• Accelerate, brake, and steer gently to avoid skidding.
• If you feel the vehicle starting to skid, ease off of the gas, try not to slam on the brakes, and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
• Turn on headlights, so that you can both see and be seen.
• Never use cruise control as it can cause a loss of control if the wheels slip.
• Stay at least 200 feet behind snowplows and try not to pass or crowd them.
• Watch out for extra slippery spots, such as bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and intersections. Ice and packed snow may linger here for longer.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full in case you get stopped or delayed.
• If you get stuck, stay with your vehicle unless help is clearly close, make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow, and run the engine only periodically to stay warm while cracking a window slightly for ventilation.