Snow!!

I know I grew up in Wisconsin. I live in Wisconsin by choice. I got my temps and learned to drive starting in January. But, I don't know what it is -- ever since I moved from DC and especially since moving to West Bend, I am terrified of driving in the snow. An entire day of work can be almost shot because I'll be nervous about my commute later on that day (or in a few days). Last year Rob and I slid off a back road in West Bend and ended up in the ditch. We were fine, but it was nerve racking! It wasn't snowing, Rob is a safe driver, and yet, it still happened.

So, here is my rant/PSA. SLOW DOWN OUT THERE. The posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions. I go the 7 mph over the speed limit on a normal basis. But it's just not worth it to me when it's snowing or it's been snowing or it's winter or it's windy. I turn into seriously the worst granny driver. I know, in normal conditions, again -- I get angry at the slow driver just as much (if not more so) than the next guy. But, it's just different when it's not completely clear out.

Oh, and also, don't tailgate. Breaking distance decreases too. And it makes the granny driver (aka me), even more nervous which makes me go even slower. And this year I'm determined not to let your tailgating pressure me. I believe in keeping up with traffic -- I'm a huge proponent. But, not necessarily in bad conditions when you don't feel safe. Last year I had a small skid out and slid into a curb on a ramp to get on Capitol. I dented my tire rim and had to get it repaired, and it seriously deflated my tire. And you know why that happened? I was taking the turn too quickly because I didn't want to upset the people behind me by going slower and breaking sooner. This year -- too damn bad. You can hold your horses. 

Now, maybe you feel safe in your big truck/SUV, but I don't. And you know what -- you probably aren't as safe as you think either. You can probably get through higher snow than I can, but if you can't get traction ... I don't know, the size of your vehicle isn't going to do much I don't think.  I could take the time to find some statistics on car accidents and deaths or amount of money spent on damage ... but just take a second and think about it. Is getting some place 5 minutes faster really worth either of those things? I don't think so.

So, please, please be careful out there this winter and be courteous to the granny drivers out there like me.