Winter driving can be a challenge, especially when faced with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. As winter storms and hazardous conditions become more frequent, it’s crucial to be prepared for the challenges of driving in these tough conditions. Knowing the right safety precautions can help you avoid accidents, keep your vehicle in good shape, and ensure your well-being.
In this article, you will learn practical winter driving tips that will help you stay safe on the road, whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or embarking on a long journey. From vehicle preparation to driving techniques, we’ve got you covered with the best advice for safe winter driving.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Conditions
Before hitting the road in winter, ensuring your vehicle is prepared for the harsh conditions is essential. Regular maintenance is key, as winter weather can be unforgiving on your car.
Check Tire Tread and Pressure
One of the most important things to check on your vehicle during the winter is the tires. Make sure your tires have adequate tread depth to provide the traction needed to handle slippery roads.
Winter tires are a great investment, as they are designed specifically for cold weather, ice, and snow. Also, keep an eye on tire pressure, as the cold temperatures can cause the air in your tires to contract, leading to underinflation.
Inspect Your Battery
Cold weather can take a toll on your car’s battery, leading to poor performance or even failure. If your battery is older than three years, consider replacing it before winter sets in. Regularly check your battery for corrosion and ensure it’s tightly secured.
Top Off Fluids
Before winter hits, check your car’s oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Ensure that your windshield wiper fluid is rated for freezing temperatures, and keep an extra jug in your car in case you need it. Also, use antifreeze to prevent your engine from freezing in extremely cold conditions.
Ensure Proper Lighting
Shorter daylight hours mean that visibility is even more important in the winter. Check your headlights, taillights, and turn signals to ensure they’re working properly. Clean them regularly, as snow and grime can easily block the light, reducing your visibility on the road.
Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand
It’s always a good idea to carry an emergency kit in your car during the winter months. Essential items to include are:
- A blanket for warmth
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Non-perishable snacks
- Water
- A shovel for clearing snow
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables
Driving Techniques for Winter Weather
Even with a well-prepared vehicle, driving in winter conditions requires extra caution. The following driving techniques will help you stay safe on icy or snowy roads.
Drive Slowly and Keep a Safe Distance
The first rule of winter driving is to slow down. Reduced visibility and slick roads mean that stopping distances are much longer than usual. Make sure to drive at a speed that allows you to react to unexpected obstacles, and always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Use Low Beams in Snow or Fog
When driving in snow or fog, always use your vehicle’s low-beam headlights. High beams can reflect off the snow, reducing visibility, while low beams allow you to see better and be seen by other drivers.
Avoid Sudden Movements
When driving on icy or snowy roads, sudden movements can cause your vehicle to lose control. Avoid sharp turns, hard braking, and rapid acceleration. If you start to skid, gently steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.
Use Traction Control and ABS
Modern vehicles come equipped with traction control and Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), which can help you maintain control in slippery conditions. If your car has these features, make sure they are turned on and functioning properly.
Don’t Use Cruise Control
It’s tempting to set your cruise control during long, straight drives, but doing so in winter conditions can be dangerous. Cruise control doesn’t allow for quick adjustments when you need to react to changes in road conditions, such as ice patches.
Brake Early and Gently
Braking in winter conditions requires a more delicate touch. When approaching a stop sign, red light, or slower traffic, start braking earlier than you normally would, and apply the brakes gently to avoid skidding.
Take Extra Care on Bridges and Overpasses
Bridges and overpasses freeze more quickly than regular roads because they are exposed to the air from all sides. Always approach these areas with extra caution and reduce your speed when crossing them.
What to Do If You Get Stuck in Snow or Ice
Even the best-prepared drivers can find themselves stuck in a snowbank or on an icy road. If you do get stuck, it’s important to stay calm and take the right steps to get moving again.
Don’t Spin Your Tires
If your tires are stuck, spinning them will only dig you deeper into the snow. Instead, gently rock your car back and forth by shifting between forward and reverse gears. This can help free your car from a snowbank without damaging the transmission.
Use a Shovel or Kitty Litter
If your vehicle is stuck in deep snow, use a shovel to clear snow from around the tires. You can also place sand, gravel, or kitty litter under the tires to provide extra traction and help get the car moving.
Stay Visible and Call for Help
If you can’t get your car moving, stay inside the vehicle and call for help. If you’re on a busy road, keep your hazard lights on to alert other drivers. If you’re on a remote road, wait for help and conserve your energy.
Winter Driving Safety for Long Trips
If you’re planning a long drive in the winter, extra precautions are necessary. Long trips mean extended exposure to potential hazards, so being prepared is essential.
Check Weather Conditions
Before you leave, check the weather forecast for your route. Avoid traveling in severe weather conditions if possible, and plan for potential delays caused by snow or icy roads.
Plan Your Stops
On long trips, make sure to stop regularly to check the condition of your vehicle and stretch your legs. Take breaks to warm up your vehicle if necessary and make sure your emergency kit is easily accessible.
Tell Someone Your Travel Plans
Let a friend or family member know your route and expected arrival time. In case of an emergency, this will help them contact authorities and assist in your recovery.
What to Do After the Storm
After a winter storm has passed, there are a few additional things to consider before hitting the road again.
Clear Off Snow and Ice
Before starting your car, make sure to clear off all the snow and ice from your vehicle, including the windshield, windows, lights, and roof. Snow can blow off your car while driving, impairing your visibility and the visibility of other drivers.
Check Road Conditions
Even after a storm has passed, roads may still be icy or slippery. Check with local authorities or use road condition apps to ensure that your route is safe before heading out.
Drive Cautiously
Even if the storm has passed, roads may still be slick, so drive cautiously and remain aware of changing conditions. Keep an eye out for patches of ice that may not be visible, particularly in shaded areas or on bridges.
Winter Driving Safety Tips FAQ’s
- What should I do if my car starts to skid on ice?
If your car starts to skid, steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go and avoid slamming on the brakes. - How can I tell if my tires are ready for winter?
Check the tread depth on your tires; if it’s too low, it’s time for new tires. Winter tires offer superior traction in snow and ice. - Should I drive in snow or ice if I’m not experienced?
If you’re not comfortable driving in snow or ice, it’s best to stay home until conditions improve. It’s always safer to avoid driving in harsh winter weather. - How can I prevent my car battery from dying in cold weather?
Have your battery tested before winter, and replace it if it’s over three years old. Keep the battery terminals clean and secure. - Is it safe to use cruise control in winter driving conditions?
No, it’s not safe. Cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle in slippery conditions because it doesn’t allow for quick adjustments. - How often should I check my car’s fluids in the winter?
Check your fluids regularly, especially before long trips. Ensure that your windshield wiper fluid is rated for freezing temperatures. - What should I keep in my emergency kit for winter driving?
Include essentials such as a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, non-perishable food, water, snow shovel, ice scraper, and jumper cables.
