AAA shares essential tips to help locals and visitors stay safe on icy roads
Winter in southwest Iowa brings beautiful scenery—and challenging driving conditions. As travelers and locals alike hit the roads for work, events, and winter getaways, preparation matters more than ever. That’s why AAA – The Auto Club Group is encouraging drivers to take proactive steps to stay safe during winter weather.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, each year 1,300 people are killed and 116,000 are injured in crashes on snowy or icy pavement. With snow, ice, sleet, and extreme cold all in play, AAA says preparation can make the difference between a smooth trip and a dangerous situation.
“Winter driving hazards such as cold temps, slick ice, snow-packed roads, and reduced traction make braking and steering treacherous,’ said Brian Ortner, spokesman for AAA - The Auto Club Group. “Speeding, tailgating, and poorly maintained vehicles amplify the danger, so prepping your car with winter tires, a strong battery, and proper fluid levels is essential for safety.”
Get Your Vehicle Winter-Ready
AAA recommends reviewing a few key maintenance items before heading out this winter:
AAA’s Winter Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
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Tires: Check pressure weekly; consider winter tires
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Battery: Test regularly; cold weather reduces power
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Fluids: Use winter-grade washer fluid; check antifreeze; change oil for winter viscosity
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Wipers & Defroster: Replace blades; ensure heater works
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Brakes & Lights: Inspect brakes; clean and check all lights
Drivers can find trusted help through AAA’s network of approved repair facilities by visiting:
👉 AAA.com/AutoRepair
Common Reasons Drivers Need Help in Winter
AAA roadside assistance data shows winter conditions often lead to:
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Dead batteries, as cold temperatures reduce power output
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Tire issues, when worn tread struggles on snow and ice
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Crashes or slide-offs, caused by reduced traction and black ice
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Running out of fuel, which can quickly become dangerous in freezing temps
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Frozen locks or lockouts, when moisture freezes in doors or mechanisms
Keeping your gas tank above a quarter full and checking tires regularly can help prevent many of these issues.
What to Do If You Become Stranded
If winter weather leaves you stuck, AAA advises staying calm and taking these steps:
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Stay inside your vehicle for shelter unless it’s unsafe
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Turn on hazard lights to improve visibility
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Call for help and share your GPS location
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Run the engine about 10 minutes per hour and crack a window for ventilation
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Layer clothing, stay hydrated, and conserve phone battery
“If your car stalls in traffic, act fast: turn on hazard lights, set the emergency brake, stay inside with doors locked, and call for roadside assistance immediately,” added Ortner. “If remaining in your vehicle puts you at risk, such as on a blind curve or in heavy traffic, exit carefully, move to a safe location away from the roadway, and call for assistance immediately.”
How to Request AAA Roadside Assistance
AAA members can request help through multiple options:
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Call: 800.AAA.HELP
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App: AAA.com/Mobile
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Online: AAA.com/RoadsideAssistance
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Text: Text “help” to 800.222.1134
Have your membership card and ID ready when requesting service.
Winter Tips for Electric Vehicle Drivers
AAA notes that cold weather can reduce EV range by up to 40%. To stay powered up:
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Precondition the battery while plugged in
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Keep your EV plugged in overnight when possible
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Charge more frequently during cold spells
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Use heated seats and steering wheels instead of blasting cabin heat
Slow Down, Move Over
AAA also reminds drivers to protect first responders and tow operators by following Iowa’s Slow Down, Move Over law—slowing down and changing lanes when approaching emergency or roadside service vehicles.
Why This Matters for Council Bluffs Travelers
At Unleash Council Bluffs, we want every winter trip—whether you’re visiting for an event, exploring the region, or heading home safely—to be a good one. Sharing trusted safety guidance from partners like AAA helps keep our community and visitors moving confidently, even when winter weather hits.
About AAA – The Auto Club Group
The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 65 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.
