Most students like to stay indoors during the typical snow-and-ice storms that keep them from having to go to school for one more day. They like to sleep in, watch Netflix, drink some hot chocolate, and call it a sick day without the sickness.

But what if someone has to get out of the house? The slick roads that got students out of school for the day have now become a danger to anyone in a car.

Bill Grogan, the driver’s ed teacher for the school’s program, told more on the dangers of bad weather driving.

“Bad weather can impede a driver’s reaction time, braking distance, and overall control in response to their environment,” Grogan said. “It’s a serious concern because driving is not only about yourself, but everyone around you.”

Grogan says that the best advice in any bad weather situation where driving is more dangerous than usual is to just simply stay off the roads, but that isn’t always an option. For most students, staying inside is welcome, but some people have emergencies or obligations in which they need to get out of the house.

Grogan offered his take on what to do if driving is essential in these situations.

“Drive cautiously and defensively,” Grogan said. “Drive under the speed limit. Speed limits are designed for the perfect road, car, weather, and driver. Limit all distractions.”

For most, that looks like turning off the phone, being more aware than usual of the surroundings, and taking the absolute maximum precautions to make sure they get where they are going safely.

Grogan also offered his advice on what especially to watch out for on the road. 

“The MOST dangerous [place], in my opinion, would be intersections, because a high number of people are trying to traverse each other’s travel paths in one specific area,” Grogan said.

These snow days can be fun, lazy, blow-off days for many teens, and even productive and busy days for others. But the most important thing is everyone’s safety, and students need to make sure they take the precautions to get back to school alive and well.

“Being aware is an essential responsibility for all drivers,” Grogan said. “Remember, the road carries not only you, but many good, hardworking people trying to make this world a better place. We all must drive defensively to make sure each one of us gets home.”