Safe winter travel starts with a well-prepared vehicle

Having a well-maintained vehicle is important year-round, but it’s especially critical when winter weather hits. The recent snowstorm across the state was a reminder for all Wisconsinites that weather can have a significant impact on travel. Snow, sleet and ice can cause hazardous road conditions, so be sure your vehicle is prepared for winter travel to help reach your destination safely.

“Road conditions can be unpredictable during our winter months, but every driver can take steps to prepare their vehicle before heading out to prevent breakdowns and crashes,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “With much of the state experiencing the season’s first winter storm last week, drivers are reminded to winterize their vehicles, pack an emergency kit and stay off the roads during a storm when possible.”

According to preliminary data from Oct. 2024 to May 2025, winter roads contributed to more than 13,000 crashes in Wisconsin, resulting in 32 fatalities and more than 2,500 injuries.

To keep drivers safe this season, the Wisconsin State Patrol’s December Law of the Month focuses on preparing your vehicle for winter roads.

Winterizing your vehicle

It is best to stay off the roads during severe winter weather to eliminate the risk of a crash and keep the roads clear for first responders and snowplow drivers. If you must head out, always prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving.

The Wisconsin State Patrol recommends the following checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for the season:

• • Clear snow and ice from your vehicle windows, lights, roof, hood, cameras and sensors. Snow and ice sliding or blowing off your roof or hood can be dangerous. State law requires windows to be kept reasonably clean at all times.
  • Be sure your phone is fully charged.
  • Travel with an emergency kit in your vehicle. Items to consider include:
    • Warm clothing and blankets
    • Water and energy bars
    • Flashlight
    • First-aid kit
    • Snow scraper
    • Cell phone charger
  • Keep your fuel tank at least half-full throughout winter. This will help prevent fuel lines from freezing and provide extra fuel if you become stranded.
  • Ensure that the battery, anti-freeze and cooling system are in good condition.
  • Replace worn windshield wipers and fill up the washer fluid. State law requires vehicles to have wipers capable of clearing the windshield area and adequate fluid available for the windshield washer system.
  • Make sure tires are in good condition and properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. State law requires every tire to have at least 2/32-inch tread depth. Proper tire tread keeps your vehicle from slipping on winter roads.

As a reminder, 511 Wisconsin is a free resource that provides live updates on traffic and road conditions. If you must travel, know before you go. Download the 511 Wisconsin app, visit 511wi.gov, or call 511 to monitor conditions.

View the December Law of the Month video and news release online: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.aspx

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.