Snow Driving Safety

Winter driving can be extremely hazardous, and knowing different snow driving safety tips can help motorists reach their destinations safely.

There are several hazards that drivers need to be aware of during the winter months, whether they are running errands around town, commuting to and from work, or taking a long trip.

• Visibility: Even a light snow flurry can impair drivers’ visibility, and severe blizzards can make useful visibility nonexistent.
• Ice: Even a small amount of moisture on roads can quickly become slick ice. Black ice, in particular, is a common hazard: it is a sheet of ice too thin to obscure the road so the black asphalt is clearly visible, yet it is still slick enough to reduce road traction.
• Drifts: Snow drifts may seem soft and fluffy, but they can quickly obscure lanes and become formidable obstacles for any size vehicle.
• Temperature: Freezing temperatures can impair vehicles’ performance and make any necessary emergency measures, such as changing a tire, more dangerous for drivers.

With the proper winter weather driving tips, any motorist can be well prepared for car trips during the coldest months, even in less than ideal weather conditions.

The first step to safely driving during the winter is to have an adequately prepared vehicle. In late fall, every car owner should have their vehicle thoroughly inspected and winterized, including:

• Charging or replacing the battery if necessary
• Checking all belts and hoses for cracks, leaks, or weaknesses
• Ensuring proper tire inflation and tread or changing to snow tires if necessary
• Topping off engine fluid levels, including brake fluid and antifreeze
• Getting a cold weather oil change
• Ensuring that wiper blades are in peak condition
• Checking the spare tire
• Checking the heating and defrost systems for proper operation

In addition to a winterizing tune up, drivers should stock their car with emergency winter supplies. Items essential for a cold weather kit include:

• Sand, sawdust, gravel, or kitty litter to use for traction
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Jumper cables
• A bright colored blanket
• Extra warm clothes including gloves
• Flares or reflective triangles
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Small snow shovel
• Tire chains or tow chains
• First aid kit
• High energy snacks such as chocolate, nuts, or protein bars
• Credit card or cash in case a tow truck or extra fuel is needed

By having a carefully prepared car, drivers can take to the roads confidently in the winter.

Safe, defensive driving is the best thing drivers can do to minimize winter driving hazards.

• Keep to main roads and only drive after snow plows and sanders have done their job.
• Decrease driving speed in poor conditions or on questionable roads.
• Allow a greater amount of following distance in case of sudden stops.
• Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility to other drivers.
• Do not use cruise control – road conditions can change in an instant.
• Always remove snow and ice from headlights and taillights.
• Minimize distractions – avoid cell phone conversations, fiddling with the radio, or eating while driving.

Skidding is the most common unexpected winter driving condition, but with the proper snow driving safety techniques, drivers can minimize the dangers of a skid.

• Reduce speed immediately when the skid begins without slamming the brakes.
• Apply brakes gently when skidding, but do not pump anti-lock brakes.
• Steer the car into the skid to help gain traction and control.
• If the front wheels are skidding, don’t steer immediately – let the car slow naturally and it will begin to regain traction.
• If possible, steer toward the side of the road away from other drivers. If necessary, steer toward a snowdrift rather than a more solid obstacle.
• Once the car has stopped, take a deep breath to regain your composure before gently easing forward again.

Engine trouble, heavy storms, and impassable roads can all leave drivers stuck in the emergency lane. If you are stuck in the snow, these tips can help you survive the situation.

• Do not spin tires in an attempt to get unstuck; this will only dig the car in deeper.
• Use a shovel to clear snow from in front of the tires, and use gravel, sand, or kitty litter to add traction.
• If you are unable to free your vehicle, put out emergency flares or reflective triangles to alert other drivers that you are stuck.
• Stay with your vehicle at all times; it is easier to find.
• Run the car’s engine only 10 to 15 minutes each hour for heat, and keep a window slightly cracked to minimize the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
• Periodically check the car’s front grill vents and tailpipe to eliminate clogs.
• Use a cell phone to call for help if possible, giving as accurate of directions as you can to your location.
• Put something bright and visible – a blanket, sheet, or other large object – in the car’s rear window, attached to the roof, or in another visible location to help emergency personnel locate your vehicle.
• Stay warm, alert, and hydrated until help arrives.

These additional safety tips can help all drivers minimize the risks of snow driving.

• Always wear seat belts, even for short trips.
• Keep the gas tank at least 1/3 full to ensure there is enough fuel for warmth if you do get stuck.
• If the vehicle has rear wheel drive, add extra weight to the trunk for increased traction and stability.
• Avoid driving in poor weather if possible; combine errands and stock up on groceries to minimize driving needs.

Snow driving safety tips can help all motorists brave winter roads with confidence and security, well prepared for winter hazards while driving. With a well tuned car and proper driving techniques, drivers do not need to fear winter driving conditions.

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