Pennsylvania State police have adopted a zero-tolerance policy regarding weather related crashes. A fine of at least $100 will be issued to any motorist who causes a crash by driving at unsafe speeds. Troopers feel defensive driving is a good way to approach winter travel, "but smart driving is the best way." Weather plays a role in accidents, but many can be attributed to driver error."

Winter Driving Tips:

• Leave a safe distance between your vehicle and others around you. At least three car-lengths is preferred. It takes 2 to 12 times the distance to stop on snow and ice as on dry concrete.

• Keep the windshield clear of snow, ice and fog. Be sure headlights, windshield wiper blades and defrosters are in top working condition. You have to see danger to avoid it.

• Use snow tires, tire chains, or studded tires on snow and ice where allowed. They cut stopping distances and give more starting and climbing traction ability. Even with the help of chains or studs, slower-than-normal speeds are a must on snow and ice.

• Remember condensation on the pavement of bridges and overpasses freezes before the rest of the roadway. These are areas to be extra careful.

• Keep a blanket, some food and water and a first aid kit in the vehicle in case you're stuck in traffic or involved in an accident. A cell phone comes in handy as well and having an emergency roadside assistance plan could also pay for itself with just one incident.

• Get the feel of the road. If you are away from traffic, try the brakes occasionally while driving slowly. Find out just how slippery the road is and adjust your speed to road and weather conditions. Never make sudden moves like slamming on the brakes or the accelerator.

• If you start to skid, steer into the direction of the skid.

• Don't pass snowplows and salting trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.