CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Sunday’s expected snowfall is a reminder that there are some precautions you ought to take when driving in wintry weather.

While this first real snowfall of the year is no blizzard any accumulating snow can make traveling on the roads more treacherous. Each year, 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement and for those who can staying inside and enjoying the view of the snow is the better option.

“Just kinda hunker in for the evening and do some Christmas decorating wrap some presents and wait for it to stop snowing. And then probably go out and take care of the driveway,” Daniel Randall from Granby told 22News.

The best and safest advice during snowfall is to just stay off of the roads completely but if you do have to get in the car and travel somewhere there are many tips out there to stay safe. According to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation you should clear the ice and snow from your car and leave plenty of room for stopping.

Don’t use cruise control, and most importantly avoid driving during the worst part of any snow storm. If possible only travel during daylight hours, don’t travel alone and stay on main roads.
Also if your car does end up skidding or spinning out steer in the direction of the skid, so when your wheels regain traction, you don’t have to overcorrect to stay in your lane.

“We do have a four wheel drive vehicle at home so if we need to get out for whatever reason we can but yeah unless I have to go somewhere I just stay home and check my fantasy football team,” Paul Illouz from Agawam said.

AAA advises that in wintry weather we should all prepare our cars with blankets, snacks, and to make sure your car battery is good to go and warmed up.