6 Safe Driving Tips for Winter in the US
With weather patterns changing rapidly over the past decade, there is no way to tell when you might end up having to drive in snowy conditions. Whether you live in the mountains outside of San Jose or on the plains of South Dakota, winter driving can be hazardous and tough to manage.
Last year, Texas experienced an unprecedented snowstorm that resulted in hundreds of drivers being stranded on the side of the road. If you live in an area that normally doesn’t get a snowy winter, you should still always be prepared. Those that aren’t accustomed to winter driving should pay attention to our list of safe driving tips.
With the right skills, you won’t have to worry about winter driving. You can be sure that you are taking the right precautions to keep you and your family safe on the road. Let’s take a closer look at a few tips for safe winter driving.
Snow Removal
When you head out to your driveway after a snowy night, you may find several inches of snow and ice on the surface of your car. The most important way to stay safe on the winter roads is to create visibility. It may be a pain, but it is critical that you take the time to remove all the snow from your car before you get behind the wheel. Snowy road conditions can make it hard to see everything that is going on around you, and built-up snow can create dangerous blind spots. Always keep a handy snowbrush in your car so that you can clear the snow off your vehicle.
Check Conditions
The key to staying safe on the winter roads is to avoid driving when the conditions get bad. Before you head out, always take some time to check the weather and road conditions. If there is bad weather on the way, you should consider changing or delaying your plans. You can look online or watch your local news to get your area’s most recent road conditions.
Gentle Braking
Snow and ice can create slippery conditions on the roads during the winter. In some cases, where there are bare spots on the road, black ice can form, creating a dangerously slick surface. If you start to slip or slide on the road during the winter, you may be tempted to use your brakes to help you stop. However, heavy breaking during winter conditions can result in a bigger slide. When you start to slide on the snow, the best idea is to gently touch your brakes and steer towards the slide to allow your vehicle time to correct its own path.
Stop signs and traffic light areas can be especially slick in the winter. With many vehicles repeatedly braking in the same spot, an icy surface can form. Give yourself lots of time to stop. Begin braking farther back from a stop than normal to help give your vehicle lots of time to slow down.
Check Your Tires
Before the winter weather hits your area, it’s important to check your tires. You want to ensure that your tires have sufficient tread to create enough friction to give you grip on the winter roads. If you live in an area that gets regular winter weather, you may want to switch your tires out for a winter design. Winter tires are specifically designed to give you more traction and control on winter roads.
Slow Down
It can be difficult to control your vehicle on the road during winter. Your car will not have the ability to stop as quickly as in dry conditions. When the roads are slick, it’s important to slow down. Getting to your destination alive is more important than getting there quickly when there are dangerous road conditions. Stay off the brakes and keep your speeds to a minimum to help you stay safe on the roads during winter.
Safety Kit
Even with the best driving skills, it’s possible that you could end up sliding off the road and getting caught in a ditch during the winter. If you are properly prepared, you will have no problems until help can arrive to pull you out. Your car should have a winter safety car kit to help you survive if you are stranded. Your winter emergency kit should include:
- Thermal blanket
- First aid kit
- Candles
- Extra clothes
- Foldable shovel
- Water
- Protein snacks
- Gloves
- Flares
You never know when you may end up driving on wintery roads. Follow these tips to help you stay safe and keep your family protected.