(NC)-An RBC Insurance/Ipsos Reid survey found that only 51 per cent of Canadians have an emergency supply kit in their car that includes first aid supplies, blankets or extra clothing and other essential items. Winter months can bring severe weather and greatly jeopardize road conditions.

(NAPSI)-One thing is easy to foretell: Unpredictable weather can cause reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions that make it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself, your passengers and your car.

(NewsUSA) - Winter weather can be as dangerous as it is unpredictable. Studies have shown that approximately 70 percent of winter deaths attributed to snow and ice involve motor vehicles -; making it incredibly important to be safe on the road when driving conditions become hazardous.

While snow and ice are a familiar part of life for most Canadians, there are a few simple precautions every driver should remember before heading out in the cold.

As soon as the snow begins to fall, as it has in most Northern cities across the country, drivers are faced with an entirely new set of challenges on the road. Snow and ice can be treacherous, but if you're prepared for the dangers they present, winter driving is much less scary.

Winter weather typically increases your risk of having an automobile accident. A study by the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction shows that snowfall increases the risk of minor accidents by 80 per cent, while freezing rain increases the risk by 70 per cent.

Canadian winters are notoriously dangerous and unpredictable for drivers. With fluctuating weather patterns, subzero temperatures and icy roads, drivers need to be prepared for all possible conditions.

The Canadian winter is often marked by fierce winter storms and blizzard conditions that can appear without warning. We are often reminded of the snow, sleet and black ice that can make winter driving dangerous. This year ensure you are prepared to withstand even the harshest of winter weather conditions.

When driving in snow, sleet and ice, safety takes a turn for the better if you take note of these winter-driving tips from IndyCar Series driver Danica Patrick. Here are her 10 basic guidelines to follow for safe winter driving on slippery roads:

No matter where you live, winter driving requires extra-special attention. When the temperatures outside fall, keeping an eye on your car's mechanical condition, being prepared and driving cautiously are all critical to your personal safety and that of your passengers.