Driving in Snow: Essential Tips for Safe Winter Travel
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Driving in snow presents challenges for even the most seasoned winter drivers. Driving in the snow can increase risk of poor road conditions and accidents, especially for those unfamiliar with winter driving conditions. This guide for safe winter driving shares tips for driving in the snow as well as guidance on how to navigate snowy and ice roads safely.
Understanding Winter Road Conditions
Safe driving in winter conditions involves a savvy combination of maintaining a steady speed and good reaction time on potentially slippery roads. Nearly one-quarter of weather-related crashes take place on icy roads or snow-covered roads. Agencies across the United States spend more than $2.3 billion per year to manage road conditions, representing about 20% of their total maintenance budgets, but bad road conditions can crop up in an instant.
Drivers must first understand that winter road conditions can look and feel a lot different than their summertime counterparts. Roads can be icy and slippery and drivers who don't have snow tires may become stuck in snow or jam on the brake pedal suddenly. Likewise, ice can be hard to spot until you feel your car spinning out. Reduced visibility can make it hard to see even a few feet in front of you, even if your windshield wipers are working at full speed. All of this can lead to treacherous driving conditions and the need to pay very close attention when driving in wintry conditions.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Driving in the Snow
Some drivers choose cars with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive for safe winter driving. In addition, you can tune up your vehicle so that it is well-prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
- Check your tires and consider winter tires. Tire inflation tends to dip along with the temperature outside. Inspect tires monthly to make sure they are properly inflated and consider snow tires if you will be driving in winter conditions on a regular basis. Proper tire inflation can also save up to 11 cents per mile on gas.
- Don't let your gas tank drop below half full. This will ensure that you are never stranded with a car that will no longer run and it also helps to prevent freezing fuel lines.
- Create an emergency roadside kit. Gather a flashlight, blankets, snacks and water, jumper cables, a shovel, extra batteries, and anything else you might need if stranded.
- Replace windshield wipers, if needed. Some drivers opt for silicone windshield wiper blades instead of rubber in the winter.
- Plan ahead. Look at road conditions before you head out so you can avoid the worst of winter weather. When possible, stay home!
Essential Safety Tips for Driving in Snow
It goes without saying but the key tips for driving in snow revolve around speed and distance. When driving in snow, you should use common sense and preparation to support safe driving.
If you can't stay home, then you should start by slowing down and allowing yourself extra time to get to where you are going.
- Take it easy. If you feel yourself getting stuck in snowy conditions, it can be tempting to press the gas pedal in all the way. Instead, accelerate slowly, which will help to prevent skids and will keep your vehicle from spinning out of control. Give yourself plenty of time to stop as well.
- Space is your friend. Many experts recommend up to 10 seconds of following distance between your car and the one in front of you. More space is better when it comes to winter driving.
- Steady brakes. Most cars today have antilock brakes that can prevent wheels from locking up if the brake pedal is applied suddenly. Regardless, aim for steady, even pressure on the brakes and the gas.
- Never use cruise control on icy or snowy roads. If you do find yourself skidding, you should steer in the direction of the skid.
If visibility is extremely limited or you feel unsafe, pull off the road and find a safe spot to stop until driving conditions improve.
Preparing an Emergency Kit for Winter Travel
An emergency kit is a must for driving in wintry conditions. You can pack it in the fall and store it in your trunk. Depending on where you live and how much you travel, your emergency kit may consist of the following items:
- A flashlight and warning lights
- Non-perishable food and water
- Warm clothing and blankets
- Medication
- Jumper cables
- A snow shovel and ice scraper
- Extra batteries
- A tool kit and a first-aid kit
Of course, your vehicle should also have a spare tire and the tools to change it.
Protect Yourself With Winter-Ready Car Insurance
Auto insurance is essential for safe winter driving. You can compare quotes for winter car insurance and make sure you are covered for every season and all driving conditions at EverQuote.