The other thing I learned as a pilot is TURN AROUND when the weather deteriorates. Applies on the ground in many situations as well.
Good advise, Bear Wash.
When I was an active private pilot (haven't flown regularly for years), I had absolutely no compunction about turning around when the weather up ahead starting looking bad. I always had a field in mind for a quick landing, too.
"If you have time to spare, go by air."
I read those accident reports every month in AOPA Pilot magazine.
You got that right.
I tried a shortcut through the mountains of Pennsylvania several years ago and the going just got worse and worse. Finally I came upon a group of about 30 snowmobilers who were stranded on the road. I was driving a 4x4 Suburban--better than anything the snowmobilers had--and decided to turn back. The one thing I had on my side was some pick-mattocks to chop through the 4" thick ice to make a turn-around spot. When I got back to civilization I called 911. At first they were totally unconcerned, but I busted their chops until they promised to send somebody up there.
You gotta be prepared before you go and have enough sense to know when it's time to turn around.