Winter weather can create dangerous roadway conditions that even experienced motorists can have trouble driving through. In fact, snow and ice-related accidents cause more than 1,300 deaths and over 116,800 injuries each year, according to the U.S Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Turns out it’s rain. A new analysis of federal data shows that rain causes more driving fatalities than snow in 39 of the 50 states. In fact, car accidents are the deadliest weather hazard in the United States — whether caused by rain, snow, fog or wind — and kill about 7,000 Americans a year.

What Steps Can You Take to Drive Safely in Dense Fog?

1. Minimize distractions.
2. Reduce your speed.
3. Roll down your window.
4. Use roadside reflectors as a guide.
5. Turn off cruise control.
6. Use windshield wipers and defrosters.
7. Drive with low beams and fog lights.
8. Use the right edge of the road as a guide.

Hot or warm water is the most effective way to melt snow. Cover the puddle immediately after with a mix of salt and sand. This will prevent the melted snow (water) from being turned into ice.

In a bucket, combine a half-gallon of hot water, about six drops of dish soap, and 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol. Once you pour the mixture onto your sidewalk or driveway, the snow and ice will begin to bubble up and melt. Just keep a shovel handy to scrape away any leftover pieces of ice.

Pour or spray hot water on the ice. Pour the water around on the ice to melt it. If you have a metal watering can, this is a great way to spread the water around. If you have a way to attach a hose to the hot water in your house, this is a great way to spray down the icy driveway.