Driving safely in snow requires extra caution and preparation due to the challenges posed by slippery roads, reduced visibility, and potential hazards. Here are some tips on how to drive safely in snow.
Drive Safely In Snow – Prepare Your Vehicle
Ensure your vehicle is ready for winter conditions by checking the tires (consider using winter or snow tires for improved traction), brakes, battery, lights, windshield wipers, and fluids. Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid fuel line freezing and to provide extra weight for better traction.
Drive Slowly
Reduce your speed and drive at a slower pace than usual to maintain better control of your vehicle on slippery roads. Accelerate and decelerate gradually to avoid skidding, and leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
Drive Safely In Snow – Brake Gently
Apply the brakes gently to avoid locking them up and causing your vehicle to skid. If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the ABS do its job.
Increase Following Distance
Increase your following distance to allow for more time to react and stop safely. The normal following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds in snowy conditions.
Avoid Cruise Control
Avoid using cruise control when driving in snowy or icy conditions, as it can reduce your ability to react quickly to changes in road conditions. Maintain full control of your vehicle by operating the accelerator and brake pedals manually.
Use Lower Gears
If your vehicle has a manual transmission or a selectable automatic transmission, use a lower gear (such as “2” or “L”) to help control speed and provide better traction when driving downhill or on slippery surfaces.
Stay Alert and Focused
Pay close attention to the road conditions, other vehicles, and potential hazards such as icy patches, black ice, and snowdrifts. Avoid distractions and keep both hands on the steering wheel.
Know How to Recover from a Skid
If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm and steer in the direction you want to go (steer into the skid). Avoid overcorrecting or slamming on the brakes, as this can worsen the skid. Practice skid recovery techniques in a safe and controlled environment to become more confident in handling skidding situations. You don’t want to have to deal with repair costs!
Be Prepared
Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle with items such as a flashlight, blankets, extra clothing, non-perishable food, water, a first aid kit, a shovel, ice scraper, sand or kitty litter for traction, and a fully charged cell phone.
Plan Ahead and Check Conditions
Before heading out, check weather forecasts and road conditions. If conditions are severe, consider delaying your trip or using alternative transportation methods if possible.
Conclusion
By following these tips and exercising caution, you can help ensure a safer driving experience in snow and winter weather conditions. Remember that it’s better to arrive at your destination safely, even if it means taking longer due to reduced speeds and increased caution.
