Driving In Snow | Safety Tips For Winter Driving by Experts

By Umm e Hani on Apr 17, 2024

18 Safety Tips For Winter Driving
FAQ About Driving In Snow
That’s A Wrap!

Driving in the snowy conditions can be a challenging experience, but with the right knowledge and safety precautions, you can navigate these conditions with confidence. In this article we will guide you on how to stay safe when driving in snow.

18 Safety Tips For Winter Driving

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before you take your vehicle out on a snowy weather, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle is in tip-top condition. Start by checking your tires. They should have good tread and be properly inflated. Winter tires are a great choice for improved traction on snow-covered roads. Don't forget to examine your brakes, lights, and defrosters to ensure they are working as they should. Remember, proper vehicle maintenance is the first step to a safe snow-driving experience.

2. Clear Snow and Ice

Clearing your car of snow and ice is not just a matter of convenience; it's important for safety. Before setting off, remove all the snow and ice from your vehicle. This includes cleaning your windshield, windows, and mirrors. When your view is clear, you can better respond to any situation on the road.

Additionally, it's important to brush off any accumulated snow from the roof, hood, and trunk of your car to prevent it from flying onto the windshield of the vehicle behind you. Ensure your headlights and taillights are free from snow and ice as well.

3. Slow Down

When driving in ice and snow, always remember, the key to safe driving is reducing your speed. Slowing down allows you to maintain better control of your vehicle. It's essential to keep a safe following distance from the car in front of you. This additional space provides more time to react to sudden stops or unexpected movements. When you accelerate or brake, do so gently. Avoid any sudden actions, as they can lead to skidding and a loss of control.

4. Use Your Lights

Good visibility is crucial when driving in the snow. Always turn on your headlights, even during daylight, to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers. If your car is equipped with fog lights, using them can further enhance visibility. Ensuring others can see you is a key element of safe snow driving.

5. Be Gentle with the Gas and Brake Pedals

Maintaining a light touch on the gas and brake pedals is vital when driving in snow. Sudden, heavy acceleration or braking can cause your vehicle to skid, which is both frightening and dangerous. Instead, accelerate and brake gently to keep your vehicle under control. Avoid using cruise control in snowy conditions, as it can make it more challenging to respond to changing road conditions.

6. Avoid Slamming the Brakes

When you need to apply the brakes, avoid slamming them hard. In snowy conditions, sudden and forceful braking can lead to skidding. Instead, apply the brakes gradually and steadily, giving your vehicle the best chance to come to a stop without losing control. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), be aware that it may cause the brakes to pulse automatically in slippery conditions. This is normal and helps prevent skidding.

7. Increased Stopping Distances

Snowy roads can significantly increase the distance it takes to bring your vehicle to a stop. This means you need to plan your stops well in advance. Be cautious and start slowing down long before you need to stop or make a turn. By doing this, you can avoid accidents and maintain control over your vehicle.

8. Staying Informed and Safe

To wrap it up, always stay informed about the weather conditions and road closures. Listen to local news or check online sources for updates on road conditions. If the weather is particularly severe, consider postponing your trip until conditions improve. Your safety should always be a top priority when driving in the snow.

9. Plan Your Route

Before heading out in snowy weather, plan your route carefully. Stick to main roads and highways, which are more likely to be plowed and maintained. Avoid shortcuts through less-traveled routes that may not be cleared of snow.

10. Carry Emergency Supplies

It's always a good idea to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, especially in winter. This kit should include items like a flashlight, blankets, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, water, and a basic toolkit. These supplies can be a lifesaver if you ever find yourself stranded in the snow.

11. Know How to Correct a Skid

In snowy conditions, skidding can happen even if you're being careful. If your vehicle starts to skid, steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can make the skid worse. Remember, practice can help you become more skilled at correcting skids.

12. Take Extra Caution on Hills

Climbing or descending hills in the snow can be particularly challenging. When driving uphill, build some momentum before reaching the incline, and maintain a steady speed. When going downhill, reduce your speed and use engine braking (shifting to a lower gear) if available to avoid relying too heavily on the brakes.

13. Stay Calm in Snowstorms

If you find yourself driving in the snowstorm and visibility is severely reduced, the best course of action may be to pull over and wait for the storm to pass. If you continue driving in whiteout conditions, it can be extremely hazardous. Turn on your hazard lights to make your vehicle more visible while parked.

14. Keep Your Gas Tank Full

Try to keep your gas tank at least half full during the winter. This prevents the fuel line from freezing and ensures you have enough fuel if you encounter unexpected delays.

15. Watch for Black Ice

Black ice is a nearly invisible, extremely slippery layer of ice that can form on the road. It's especially common on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. Be particularly cautious when driving in areas prone to black ice and reduce your speed.

16. Get Your Vehicle Checked Regularly

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your vehicle is in good working condition. Periodically have your vehicle checked by a mechanic to address any issues before they become major problems, especially before the winter season.

17. Consider Four-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive

Vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) can provide better traction in snowy conditions. If you frequently drive in snowy areas, you might want to consider a vehicle with 4WD or AWD for added safety.

18. Practice in an Empty Parking Lot

If you're new to driving in snow or want to refresh your skills, consider practicing in an empty parking lot after a fresh snowfall. This can help you get a feel for how your vehicle handles in slippery conditions and how to control it better.

FAQ About Driving In Snow

What Is The First Thing You Should Do When A Motor Vehicle Starts To Skid?

When a motor vehicle starts to skid, the first thing you should do is steer in the direction you want to go. If your rear wheels are skidding to the right, turn your steering wheel to the right. If they're skidding to the left, turn it left. This helps you regain control of your vehicle. Avoid sudden braking or jerky movements, as these can make the skid worse.

How Much Following Distance Should You Leave Between Your Vehicle And A Motorcycle?

Leave at least a 3-second following distance between your vehicle and a motorcycle. To do this, pick a stationary object like a road sign and start counting when the motorcycle passes it. If you reach that object before you count to 3, you're following too closely. Motorcycles can stop quickly, and giving them extra space helps ensure everyone's safety.

What Can You Do To Prevent Skids On Snow And Ice?

To prevent skids on snow and ice, drive slowly, maintain a safe following distance, and make gentle, controlled movements with the steering, acceleration, and braking.

How To Get Better Traction In Snow?

To get better traction in snow, consider using snow chains or winter tires, drive cautiously, and keep your tires properly maintained with the right pressure and tread depth.

That’s A Wrap!

Driving in snowy conditions requires caution, preparation, and a good understanding of how to navigate the challenges that come with winter weather. By preparing your vehicle, clearing snow and ice, slowing down, using your lights, and being gentle with the gas and brake pedals, you can significantly improve your safety on snowy roads. Remember to avoid slamming the brakes, allow for increased stopping distances, and stay informed about the latest weather and road conditions to ensure a safe and stress-free winter driving experience. With these precautions and a little practice, you can confidently tackle the snow-covered roads and arrive at your destination safely. Drive carefully, stay safe, and enjoy the winter season.