Winter weather can turn your daily commute into a white-knuckle experience. When snow starts falling and roads become icy, knowing how to handle your vehicle becomes essential for getting home safely. Driving during a snowstorm requires preparation, awareness, and a few key techniques that’ll help you navigate even the worst conditions safely.
Whether you’re heading to work or meeting up with friends, these tips will keep you safer when Mother Nature decides to dump snow on your route.
Prep Your Vehicle Before You Hit the Road
Your car needs to be ready for winter weather before you even turn the key. Check your tire tread. Bald tires and snow are a terrible combination. Winter tires improve traction when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. If you can’t swing winter tires, at least make sure your all-seasons have decent tread left.
Additionally, things that wear down truck shocks include rough road conditions and environmental factors. If your vehicle feels bouncy or unstable, check the suspension as soon as possible.
Lastly, keep an emergency kit in your trunk with these essentials:
- Ice scraper and snow brush.
- Jumper cables.
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Blanket and warm clothes.
- Nonperishable snacks and water.
- Small shovel.
Slow Down and Increase Your Following Distance
Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, not blizzards. When snow is falling, cut your speed by at least 30 percent. Ice and snow drastically reduce your tires’ grip on the road, meaning you need way more distance to stop safely.
Follow the three-second rule in good weather, but bump that up to eight or ten seconds during a snowstorm. The car ahead of you might brake suddenly, and you’ll need that extra space to avoid a collision. Rushing isn’t worth the risk when roads are slick.
Master the Art of Gentle Movements
Sudden movements are your enemy in snowy conditions. Accelerate slowly and steadily. Flooring it will just make your wheels spin.
When you need to brake, apply gentle, gradual pressure rather than slamming the pedal. Jerking the steering wheel can send you into a skid, so make smooth, deliberate turns instead.
If you start to slide, stay calm. Take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go. Don’t overcorrect or hit the brakes hard, as this usually makes things worse. Modern cars with anti-lock brakes (ABS) help prevent skidding, but they work best when you brake steadily rather than in short bursts.
Know When To Stay Home
Sometimes the smartest move is not driving at all. No party, hangout, or errand is worth risking your safety when visibility drops to near zero and roads become skating rinks.
Check road conditions before leaving. If authorities issue travel warnings or advisories, take them seriously. You can always reschedule.
Stay Safe Out There This Winter
Driving during a snowstorm doesn’t have to be terrifying if you’re prepared and cautious. Keep your vehicle winter-ready, slow down, make smooth movements, and know your limits. These simple habits can mean the difference between arriving safely and ending up in a ditch.
Winter driving takes practice, so don’t stress if you feel nervous at first. The more experience you gain in snowy conditions, the more confident you’ll become. Just remember that it’s always better to arrive late than not at all.