As the new year commences, the early days of January bring a cold reminder that winter has settled in. According to local forecasters, freezing temperatures, rain and potential snow flurries are anticipated in the northern part of the state, setting the tone for the winter season.

"Whether you're embarking on a long-distance New Year’s celebration, heading to watch your favorite team in a bowl game, or staying close to home, we encourage everyone to prepare their vehicles before setting out on the trip," Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Secretary Hal Taylor advised.  "Even if your destination is expected to be free of rain or snow, it's wise to pack emergency supplies and ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. Weather can change abruptly, and the last place anyone wants to be is stranded on the side of the road without proper equipment."

Here’s a checklist to prepare your vehicle:

• Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights. Don't forget to inspect trailer brake lights and turn signals if applicable.
• Examine defrosters and all windshield wipers; replace any worn blades.
• Inspect the cooling system for leaks; test the coolant and drain or replace if necessary.
• Check the battery, charging system, and belts, as battery power tends to drop with decreasing temperatures.
• Examine tires (including the spare) and their age. Check tread, sidewalls, and inflation pressure.

Carry these items in your vehicle for winter driving tasks and emergencies:

• Jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices (flares and emergency markers).
• Blankets for protection from the cold.
• Cell phone and charger.
• Water, food, and any necessary medications.

Remember to gas up your vehicle or plug it in if it is electrical. In icy conditions, avoid using cruise control, especially when crossing frozen or iced-over bridges. Plan your route, check weather conditions and always drive courteously and cautiously.

Colonel Jon Archer, ALEA’s Director of Public Safety, emphasizes the importance of courteous driving behavior.

"Being a courteous driver is a simple driving behavior that goes a long way and makes our roadways safer for everyone," Archer said.

Contributing circumstances to traffic crashes often include following too closely, improper lane change or usage, driving over the posted speed limit, and driving while distracted. As part of ALEA’s ‘12 Days of Safety’ campaign, Archer encourages everyone to make safety and the habit of being a courteous driver a New Year’s resolution.

Take the pledge to be a courteous driver throughout 2024 by:

• Avoiding cruising in the left lane. The left lane is for passing; move back to the middle or right lane after passing another vehicle.
• Not following too closely; maintain a safe distance.
• Always using your turn signal when changing lanes and checking blind spots.
• Sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists, especially in intersections and heavily populated areas.
• Moving over for emergency vehicles, road maintenance, tow trucks, or vehicles on the side of the road with hazards on. If unable to move over due to traffic, slow down to 15 mph below the posted speed limit, as it's both courteous and the law.