What should you do to ensure safe driving during winter?

Planning your route and checking weather conditions beforehand is crucial for ensuring safe driving during winter. Winter driving can bring hazardous conditions such as snow, ice, and poor visibility, which require thorough preparation. By being aware of the weather and potential road conditions along your planned route, you can make informed decisions about whether it is safe to drive, choose safer alternative paths, or even decide to delay travel altogether. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks associated with winter weather and enhances overall safety for both the driver and others on the road.

The other options don't address the comprehensive preparation necessary for winter driving. Driving only short distances does not eliminate risks if winter conditions are present. Driving without a passenger may not significantly improve focus and can lead to loneliness or distraction instead. Leaving headlights off is unsafe in low visibility conditions, which are common in winter; headlights are essential for improving visibility and ensuring that other drivers can see you. Thus, being prepared and informed is the best strategy for safe winter driving.