How to get ready for winter driving conditions

COLORADO SPRINGS — Whether you're new to Colorado or are a native, it's a good idea to brush up on those winter driving skills.

The Colorado State Patrol reports that most speed-related crashes peak in our state from November to March.

Troopers say those accidents are likely related to driving too fast for the conditions.

There are driving schools all over Colorado Springs that will teach you how to drive in the snow. I spoke with one driving school instructor who shares her best practices.

Curtis Fowler is visiting Colorado. He says even if you are used to the snowy road conditions, take it seriously.

"You're probably awesome at driving in the snow, but what if they're not and you passing at your normal speed and the snow that it throws up causes them to freak out," he said.

"You gotta drive slower. You gotta look out for the other drivers. You gotta pay attention if the person behind you hits the brakes, are they able to stop? Are they gonna keep sliding?"

To keep you from being a crash statistic in the snow, the owner of Drive Right Academy, Susan Gates, says keep it slow.

"The biggest thing... Don't panic, which is hard to say because your emotions are going to take over. But again, with your hands low, you're going to take your foot off the accelerator. You're braking as you don't want to slam on the brakes because that will make the skid worse. You want to have nice, even pressure on the brakes."'

Watch the full story above.