10 Tips for Driving Safely During the Winter
Winter weather can be unpredictable, and that’s especially true when it comes to snow. One minute the roads are clear, and the next they’re covered in a thick layer of snow and ice. If you’re not prepared, driving in these conditions can be dangerous. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here are a few tips for driving safely in the snow.
1. The first one should be obvious. Take it slow – It’s better to arrive a few minutes late than not at all. When the roads are slick, it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to brake and accelerate slowly. Sudden movements can cause you to lose control of your car, so it’s best to take it easy when driving in the snow.
2. Check the weather forecast before you head out. This will give you an idea of what to expect in terms of road conditions. If it’s below the freezing threshold of 32° degrees, you may need to watch out for icy patches on the road.
3. Make sure your car is in good working condition. This means having enough windshield wiper fluid, good tires with plenty of tread, newer brake pads and working headlights and taillights. You may want to invest in winter tires if you want to be extra cautious.
4. Drive in an all-wheel or four-wheel drive SUV for more control in icy conditions. With all four wheels getting power, it’s easier to get out of slippery conditions. The worst type of car to drive in the winter is a rear-wheel drive car.
5. Increase your following distance. This will give you more time to stop if someone in front of you slams on their brakes.
6. Use your low-beam headlights. High beams reflect off the snow and make it difficult to see.
7. Don’t use cruise control. This can make it harder to control your car if you hit a patch of ice.
8. If you start to skid, turn into the skid and take your foot off the gas pedal until you regain control of the vehicle. For example if your car is starting to fishtail to the right, you will want to steer to the right to essentially drift to the right so you don’t end up doing a 180°.
9. Be extra careful on bridges and overpasses—they tend to freeze before other parts of the road do.
10. Finally, don’t forget to clean off your car before you hit the road! Snow and ice can obscure your vision and make it difficult for other drivers to see you too.
Extra tip: Keep an emergency kit in your car – You never know when you might get stranded, so it’s always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car during the winter months. Your kit should include items like blankets, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight with extra batteries.
Driving in the snow doesn’t have to be stressful—just use common sense and take things slow, and you’ll be fine! And if you do happen to find yourself in a sticky situation, remember to turn into the skid until you gain control of your vehicle again. Stay safe out there!