As temperatures drop and the first snow falls, drivers face new challenges on the road. Additional care, preparation, and skill are required for winter driving to ensure safe passage through hazardous conditions. To significantly reduce winter driving risks, equip yourself with essential knowledge and preparation. Here’s what you can do:
Prepare Your Vehicle
Proper vehicle maintenance can mean the difference between life and death when driving in harsh winter conditions. The basics of safe winter driving begin before you even turn the ignition:
- Let a professional test your battery to prevent sudden mishaps. You want your battery to be good, as the cold temperature can cut down your battery’s percentage capacity.
- Check your wiper blades and replace them as necessary. Winter wipers repel snow buildup and wipe more effectively for better visibility.
- Check your vehicle for burnt-out bulbs and replace them to ensure all lights illuminate properly. This is necessary for seeing and being seen in reduced-visibility conditions during winter.
- Use winter tires as they provide far better grip on snow and ice than regular all-season tires. Don’t forget to check your tire pressure regularly since it may change with temperature changes.
- Check your brakes to ensure they function properly, which is vital when driving on slippery roads.
- Lastly, make sure not to overlook the condition of your windshield. Even the tiniest crack can expand significantly in freezing weather, putting you at risk. If you notice any damage, it must be repaired by a professional auto glass service like Van Isle Glass, previously known as Van Isle Auto Glass.
Essential Winter Car Kit
You should always be prepared for the unexpected. Gather a winter car kit from the nearest hardware store. Make sure it includes the following items:
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Extra warm clothing and boots
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- Sand, kitty litter, or traction mats for added traction if you get stuck
- Small shovel
- Phone charger
These items can help you if you find yourself stranded or in an emergency.
On the road
Another important thing for winter safety is adjusting how you drive. First, increase your following distance; this should be three to four seconds on dry pavement but eight to 10 when you’re going on snow or ice. Never brake hard or on frozen surfaces, as that will very likely cause you to skid.
Avoid cruise control on slippery roads since it can delay reaction time in hazardous conditions. Make all your movements, like steering, braking, and accelerating, as smooth and gradual as possible.
Tips to Handle Skids
Even with all due care, you may be caught in a skid. If your front wheels start to skid, take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go. Wait until your tires recover their grip, then accelerate gradually. To rear-wheel slide, take your foot off the gas again. Steer the direction in which the rear of the car is sliding. Be ready to counter-steer as your car straightens out to avoid the fishtailing action.
If You Get Stuck
The worst possible thing that can happen to you is if you are caught up in snow while you are inside your car. Keep warm by running the engine and heater for about ten minutes every hour, but leave a window open to let in some fresh air. Attempt to clear the exhaust pipe from the snow to avoid carbon monoxide build-up.
Make yourself as warm as possible, and use your emergency supplies to stand out to rescue teams. Attach a bright cloth or garment onto your antenna or window, and move around inside your vehicle to keep blood circulating.
Endnote
By following these guidelines, remaining alert to changing road conditions, and applying sound judgment about when it is safe, you can drastically lower your risk on winter roads. Be safe, be prepared, and enjoy the season responsibly.
