Bridgestone Issues Safety Tips for Drivers This Winter

As conditions change, company urges drivers to stay alert and switch to winter tires

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Oct 27, 2016, 12:31 ET

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 27, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- With the end of daylight saving time on Nov. 6 signaling the approach of winter, Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) is reminding drivers to exercise extra caution behind the wheel.

As the days become shorter, it's a critical time to re-examine driving and vehicle safety. The hour shift in sunrise and sunset, coupled with colder temperatures, leads to changes in road conditions. It's essential for drivers to stay alert and ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter driving.

"As temperatures drop, it's important to make sure your vehicle is equipped to handle winter weather and that starts with installing the right set of winter tires," said Justin Hayes, product manager, Bridgestone Americas. "Winter tires give drivers more control in winter driving conditions, which often rapidly change from cold and dry to ice and snow. This added control is essential as the days become shorter and more drivers are facing dark commutes with low visibility."

The Blizzak tire line from Bridgestone is engineered to handle winter's worst conditions, offering trusted performance and impressive grip in snow, slush, ice and on dry roads. Bridgestone has two flagship offerings in the Blizzak tire line: the Blizzak WS80 tire for cars and minivans and the Blizzak DM-V2 tire for crossovers, SUVs and pickup trucks. The Blizzak WS80 tire stops up to 33 percent faster on ice when compared to an all season tire.* The Blizzak DM-V2 tire from Bridgestone is engineered with the same leading ice-gripping technology.

"The end of daylight saving time also is a good time to take a look under the hood," said Jamie Bullis, lead technician, Firestone Complete Auto Care. "Make sure you've changed out your wipers in the past year, or even switched to winter wipers if you're in an area that expects a lot of snow. In addition, make sure your fluids are rated for winter temperatures."

For information about Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires or to find a Bridgestone retailer, visit www.BridgestoneTire.com.

*Based on stopping distance in ice rink testing of Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 tires (235/55R17) versus Firestone FR710 tires (235/55R17). Actual results may vary based on proper tire maintenance, vehicle, driving style and road conditions.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:
Nashville, Tennessee-based Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM) is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world's largest tire and rubber company. BSAM and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires to address the needs of a broad range of customers, including consumers, automotive and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers, and those in the agricultural, forestry and mining industries. The companies are also engaged in retreading operations throughout the Western Hemisphere and produce air springs, roofing materials, and industrial fibers and textiles. The BSAM family of companies also operates the world's largest chain of automotive tire and service centers. Guided by its One Team, One Planet message, the company is dedicated to achieving a positive environmental impact in all of the communities it calls home.

About Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC:
Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC (BSRO) is headquartered in Bloomingdale, Ill., and operates the largest network of company-owned automotive service providers in the world — more than 2,200 tire and vehicle service centers across the United States — including Firestone Complete Auto Care, Tires Plus, Hibdon Tires Plus, Michel Tires Plus and Wheel Works store locations. Credit First National Association and Firestone Complete Fleet Care operations are also part of BSRO. BSRO is a member of the Bridgestone Americas family of companies.

SOURCE Bridgestone Americas, Inc.