Winter driving safety tips are essential for anyone braving the elements behind the wheel. A winter drive is markedly different from a summer jaunt to the beach. The presence of snow, ice, and sleet means that roads are treacherous, visibility can be poor, and your vehicle must work harder to keep you safe and comfortable.
Prepare Your Vehicle: Winter Car Safety Checklist
Before you even consider driving in winter weather, ensure your vehicle is prepped and ready:
- Battery: Cold weather can reduce a battery’s effectiveness. Have it checked to ensure it’s fully charged and in good condition.
- Lights: With shorter days and poorer visibility, functioning lights are crucial. Check all bulbs and clean the lenses.
- Brakes: Brakes should be responsive and in excellent working order.
- Windshield: Fill up on antifreeze washer fluid and ensure your wipers are in good condition to combat snow and slush.
- Tires: Inspect the tread and consider winter tires for better traction.
- Defroster and Climate Control: Ensure this work well to aid in visibility and comfort.
Know the Conditions: Tips for Driving on Snow and Ice
Slow Down and Keep Your Distance
- Speed: Reduce your speed; how fast you can go should be dictated by the conditions, not the speed limit signs.
- Spacing: Extend your following distance to five to six seconds to allow for a longer stopping distance.
Maneuvering Through the Snow
- Gentle Handling: Abrupt turns or stops can cause skids. Smooth, careful movements are key.
- Lower Gears: Utilize lower gears to increase traction, especially on hills.
- Handling Skids: Tips Driving on Ice
- Stay Calm: Panicking only leads to rash decisions.
- Steer Into the Skid: If the back end of your vehicle starts to slide, gently steer in that direction.
Snowplow Etiquette: Driving in Snowy Conditions
- Keep Distance: Snowplows throw up snow and ice, reducing visibility. Plus, the road ahead of them is worse.
- Don’t Overtake: It’s better to stay behind a plow than attempt to pass it.
Plan Your Trip: Road Safety in Winter
- Route Planning: Choose routes that are likely to be cleared and treated. Avoid back roads and shortcuts.
- Time Allowance: Everything takes longer in the snow. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination without rushing.
Stay Visible: Driving in Winter Weather Safety Tips
- Lights On: Keep your headlights on to be seen, even during daylight hours.
- Clear Snow: Remove all snow from your vehicle, including the roof and lights.
If You Get Stuck: Bad Weather Driving Safety Tips
- Stay with Your Car: Your car is a shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you.
- Exhaust Pipe: Keep it clear to avoid a build-up of carbon monoxide inside the vehicle.
- Conserve Fuel: If the engine is running to keep warm, do so sparingly.
Keep a Winter Emergency Kit
Always carry a winter emergency kit that includes:
- Blankets or Sleeping Bags
- A Flashlight with Extra Batteries
- A First-Aid Kit
- A Knife and High-Calorie, Non-Perishable Food
- Extra Clothing to Keep Dry
- A Large Empty Can to Use as an Emergency Toilet, Tissues and Paper Towels
- A Smaller Can and Waterproof Matches to Melt Snow for Drinking Water
- A Sack of Sand (or Cat Litter) for Traction
- A Shovel
- Windshield Scraper and Brush
- Tool Kit
- Tow Rope
- Battery Booster Cables
- Water Container
- Candle and a Small Tin Can to Hold It
- Compass and Road Maps
Practice Cold Weather Driving Safety
- Winter Weather Drills: Practice driving in a snowy parking lot to get a feel for your vehicle’s winter behavior.
- Knowledge: Understand how your vehicle’s safety features like ABS and traction control work.
Take Care of Yourself: The Ultimate Safety Tip
- Dress Warmly: Always dress for the weather, in layers, even if you think you won’t be outside. If you get stuck, you’ll need warmth.
- Stay Alert: Driving in winter requires your full attention. Avoid distractions and stay focused on the road.
- Rest: Fatigue and driving do not mix, especially in winter. Rest well before long trips.
Takeaway
Adhering to these winter driving tips can make the difference between a safe journey and a perilous one. It’s all about respecting the winter conditions and adjusting your driving habits accordingly. Remember, when it comes to driving on snow and ice, cautious and prepared driving is your best defense against the unpredictable.