Ohio -- The first significant snowfall can be one of the most dangerous times to drive.

To avoid breaking down or being involved in an accident AAA recommends driving slowly and increasing the distance between you and the car in front of you.

  • First significant snow can be one of the most dangerous times to drive
  • Increase the distance between you and the car in front of you
  • Prepare an emergency roadside kit

AAA also recommends checking your tires and making sure you have the appropriate amount of air pressure and enough tred before hitting the road.

"You know we do a lot of driving in the dark. We leave from work and it's dark. We come home from work and it's dark and then you add in rain or snow and it definitley makes it dangerous on the roadways and so you have to pay a lot of attention, especially during rush hour traffic," Kimberly Schwind said.

Schwind is the Senior Public Relations Manager for the AAA Ohio Auto Club.

"A lot of times we find that drivers don't drive for conditions and so that's the main thing you have to remember during the winter. You have to drive for conditions. You can't drive the same in the rain or the snow as you do for dry pavement, so you have to alter your driving style. Give yourself more time, slow down, give yourself more following distance and don't slam on the breaks," she said.

Schwind also discussed what to pack in an emergency roadside kit. Items included: jumper cables, blankets, safety reflectors, first-aid kit, food and a phone with a charger.

If you're uncomfortable with driving in these conditions it may be best to stay at home and not take the unneccesary risks.