Master Winter Roads: 12 Safety Tips for Driving in Snow

By Umm e Hani on Apr 18, 2024

12 Simple Tips For Driving In The Snow And Ice:
That’s A Wrap!

Winter can be a beautiful time with all the snow, but it can be tough for driving. To make sure you're safe on the snowy roads, we've put together 12 safety tips for winter driving.

12 Simple Tips For Driving In The Snow And Ice

1.Equip Winter Tires

Winter tires are designed for cold, snowy, and icy weather. They use special rubber to stay flexible in the cold, giving you better grip and control to avoid skidding.

Winter tires also feature unique tread patterns that are engineered to provide traction on snow and ice. The deep grooves and sipes (small channels) in the tread help channel snow, slush, and water away from the tire's contact patch, ensuring a firm grip on the road surface.

It's crucial to install winter tires on all four wheels of your vehicle for balanced handling and stability. Consider making the switch to winter tires as the temperature drops to around 45°F (7°C) or lower, even if there isn't snow on the ground yet.

Switch to regular tires in spring as winter ones wear faster on warm roads, and their special tread may not work well in non-winter conditions. Proper maintenance and using them when needed boost safety on snowy roads.

Winter tires are a safety investment. They offer better traction and control in tough winter conditions

For safe winter travel in snowy areas, use winter tires. They're highly effective in ensuring a secure and reliable driving experience during the winter months.

Now, let's move on to the second point.

2.Understand Your Vehicle

Knowing your vehicle is vital for safe snow driving. Your vehicle might have special features to help in tough conditions. Read your owner's manual to learn about these technologies that boost safety during winter driving.

Here are some useful vehicle features for snowy and icy conditions:

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) are super helpful. They stop your wheels from locking up when you brake hard, letting you steer and avoid skidding.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is another great feature. It manages your car on slippery roads by adjusting engine power and braking for each wheel. This helps you stay in control.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) are awesome for traction and stability. They give power to all four wheels, making your vehicle more sure-footed on slippery roads.

3.Prepare Your Car for Winter

Proper vehicle preparation is crucial for ensuring your safety during winter driving. Before the snow and ice arrive, it's essential to take a few steps to get your car winter-ready:

Brakes

Have your brakes inspected. Brakes are a critical component of your vehicle's safety, and in winter conditions, they're especially important. Ensure that your brake pads and rotors are in good condition and that there are no issues with the brake fluid.

Battery

Cold weather can put extra strain on your car's battery. Have your battery tested to make sure it's in good working order. Replace it if it's weak or aging, as a strong battery is essential for starting your vehicle in cold conditions.

Wipers and Defrosters

Winter means dealing with snow, ice, and freezing rain. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if they streak or don't clear the windshield effectively. Also, check that your defrosters (front and rear) are working properly. They're essential for maintaining visibility.

Fluids

Ensure that all essential fluids in your vehicle are at the correct levels. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and, of course, washer fluid. Use winter-grade washer fluid that won't freeze in cold temperatures.

Maintaining proper fluid levels helps your vehicle run smoothly and reduces the risk of issues on the road.

4.Clear Snow and Ice Completely

Before setting off on a winter journey, it's essential to clear your vehicle of all snow and ice. This practice enhances your safety and the safety of others on the road. Here's how to do it:

Windows

Clear all windows, including the front, rear, and side windows. This ensures optimal visibility. Even small patches of ice or snow on windows can obstruct your view and create blind spots.

Mirrors

Don't forget to clear your side mirrors and rearview mirror. Properly adjusted and snow-free mirrors are crucial for safely changing lanes and merging in traffic.

Lights

Brush snow off your headlights and taillights to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers. It's especially important to keep your taillights and brake lights visible so that drivers behind you can react to your actions.

Roof

Clear snow from the roof of your vehicle, as it can slide onto your windshield or the windshields of cars following you, creating a hazard.

Hood and Trunk

Clear the hood and trunk of your vehicle as well. Snow on the hood can blow onto your windshield, and snow on the trunk can obscure your rear visibility.

5.Adjust Your Driving Speed

In winter conditions, reducing your speed is a vital safety measure. Driving in ice and snow reduce the traction between your tires and the road, making it more challenging to control your vehicle. Slowing down allows you to react more effectively to changing road conditions.

Here's how to adjust your driving speed in snowy and icy conditions:

Follow Posted Speed Limits

Adhere to posted speed limits for the road you're on, but consider driving at a lower speed if conditions are particularly challenging. Sometimes, reducing your speed below the posted limit is necessary for safety.

Drive According to Conditions

Pay attention to the conditions you're facing. If the road is icy or visibility is reduced, slow down even further. Adjust your speed to match the road conditions.

Keep a Safe Following Distance

Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This extended following distance provides more time to react to unexpected events and helps prevent rear-end collisions.

6.Master Gentle Acceleration and Braking

Sudden movements are your enemy in snowy and icy conditions. Gradual acceleration and braking are your allies when it comes to maintaining control and avoiding skids. Here's how to master these techniques:

Accelerate Gradually

When you start moving or need to speed up, press the gas pedal gently. Gradual acceleration allows your tires to grip the road surface better.

Brake Smoothly

Avoid abrupt braking. Apply the brakes gently and progressively to slow down or stop. Sudden, heavy braking can lock your wheels and lead to skidding.

Smooth Transitions

Focus on making smooth transitions between acceleration and braking. Jerky, abrupt movements increase the risk of losing traction.

7.Brake Early and Gently

In winter conditions, it's crucial to start braking early to prevent sudden stops. Snow and ice increase stopping distances, so planning ahead and braking gently are key to safety. Here's how to do it effectively:

Anticipate Stops

Identify potential stopping points well in advance, such as intersections, traffic signals, or slowed traffic. Begin slowing down early, and aim to arrive at these points with minimal braking required.

Gentle Braking

When you need to slow down or stop, apply the brakes gently. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure. If you don't have ABS, use a gentle pumping motion to prevent wheel lockup.

Maintain Following Distance

Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you, as mentioned earlier. This extra space allows you to reduce speed smoothly and avoid sudden stops.

8.Illuminate Your Path

Visibility is crucial in winter driving. Turn on your headlights, even in the daytime, to make you more visible to other drivers and help you see better in the snow. Here's why it's important:

Increased Visibility

Daytime running lights are designed to make your vehicle more visible to others. When your headlights are on, other drivers can see you more easily, reducing the risk of accidents.

Improved Visibility for You

Snowfall can reduce your own visibility by creating a curtain of white around your vehicle. Headlights help pierce through this curtain and improve your ability to see the road ahead.

Visibility in Snowstorms

During heavy snowfall or snowstorms, visibility can drop dramatically. Having your headlights on is a simple way to alert other drivers to your presence and improve your own view of the road.

Tail and Brake Lights

In snowy conditions, your taillights and brake lights should also be clearly visible to drivers behind you. Having your headlights on ensures these lights are illuminated and visible in adverse conditions.

When you encounter a snowplow on the road, it's essential to maintain a safe distance and drive with caution. Snow Plows are there to clear the road for you, but they can create unique challenges. Here's how to navigate around snow plows safely:

Keep a Safe Distance

Maintain a generous following distance behind the snowplow. The road conditions behind a snowplow may be messy, and it's best to avoid driving in that slush.

Do Not Pass

Avoid passing a snowplow. They can create reduced visibility due to snow spray, which can make it dangerous to pass them. Wait for a safe opportunity to overtake, and ensure you have a clear line of sight before doing so.

Avoid Tailgating

Do not tailgate a snowplow. Stay a safe distance behind to allow the plow operator to do their job effectively.

Watch for Turn Signals

Snowplows may need to make frequent stops or turns. Be attentive to their turn signals and brake lights to anticipate their movements.

Be Patient

Snowplow drivers are working hard to clear the road for everyone's safety. Be patient and give them the space they need to complete their task.

10.Beware of Black Ice

Black ice, also known as invisible ice or clear ice, is a significant winter driving hazard. It forms when the road surface is just cold enough for moisture to freeze upon contact, creating a thin and nearly transparent layer of ice. Black ice is especially treacherous because it's challenging to spot, making it a hidden danger for drivers.

Here's how to identify and navigate black ice:

Watch for Warning Signs

Be alert to signs of black ice, such as frost on your windshield, or a road surface that appears darker and shinier than the rest. These indicators can suggest the presence of black ice.

Reduce Speed and Maintain Control

If you suspect you're driving on black ice, reduce your speed immediately. Drive slowly and smoothly to maintain control and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Increase Following Distance

Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you, as black ice can significantly increase stopping distances.

Avoid Sudden Braking or Acceleration

Refrain from sudden braking or acceleration, which can lead to a loss of traction on black ice. Instead, make gentle and gradual adjustments to your speed and direction.

11.Stay Informed and Plan Ahead

Keeping yourself informed about the weather and road conditions is a fundamental aspect of safe winter driving. Here's what you can do to stay updated and plan your trips accordingly:

Check the Weather Forecast

Before embarking on any winter journey, check the weather forecast for your route. Pay attention to predicted snowfall, ice, and temperature changes.

Know the Road Conditions

Research the road conditions on your intended route. Many states and regions offer online resources or mobile apps that provide real-time road conditions and updates. Use these tools to make informed decisions.

Plan Your Trips

Based on the information you gather, plan your trips with safety in mind. If conditions are extremely hazardous or if you can delay your trip, consider rescheduling it to a safer time.

Share Your Plans

Inform a friend or family member of your travel plans. Provide them with your intended route and estimated arrival time. This way, someone knows where you're headed and can check in if necessary.

12.Assemble an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is a critical component of safe winter driving. It equips you to handle unexpected delays or emergencies, ensuring your safety and comfort. Here's what you should include in your winter emergency kit:

Blankets or Sleeping Bags

These items provide warmth in case you become stranded or delayed in cold conditions.

Non-Perishable Snacks

Include high-energy snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits. These can sustain you if you're stuck for an extended period.

Flashlight and Batteries

A flashlight is essential for providing light in the dark or signaling for help. Make sure you have spare batteries.

Small Shovel

A small, collapsible snow shovel can be helpful for digging out your vehicle if it gets stuck.

Reflective Triangles or Flares

These items can alert other drivers to your presence in case of a roadside emergency.

Phone Charger

Keep a phone charger in your vehicle to ensure you can maintain communication if needed.

Water and Water-Purification Tablets

Store bottles of water and water-purification tablets to ensure access to clean drinking water.

Matches and Candles

In extremely cold conditions, matches and candles can provide a small source of heat within your vehicle.

That’s A Wrap!

With these 12 winter driving tips, you'll be ready for snow and ice on the road. Each tip keeps you and others safe, so you can drive in winter with confidence and responsibility. Drive safely!

FAQ

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

When your vehicle starts to skid, the first thing to do is steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid sudden braking and stay calm to regain control.

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 for safety, but more is better in adverse conditions.

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

To prevent skids on snow and ice, drive slowly, brake gently, and accelerate smoothly. Use winter tires for better traction.

How To Get Better Traction In Snow?

To improve traction in snow, consider using snow chains or studs. Drive with caution and avoid sudden maneuvers.