Severe winter weather conditions are a serious concern for most drivers. This is because the weather conditions usually worsen in the winter due to ice and snow. As a result, there’s an increased number of accidents during the winter months.
Overall visibility and vehicle control can be reduced in the winter because of snow and ice coverage. Additionally, there are increased mechanical failures in vehicles due to the extreme cold in some regions. All of this makes driving in the winter much riskier.
However, there are some winter weather driving tips that can help you avoid these problems and have a safe driving experience this winter. Therefore, we’re going to discuss these tips in this article.
Tips for Winter Weather Driving
The following are the best winter weather driving tips to keep in mind before venturing out in the snow or ice.
Drive Only When You Have To
We understand the urge to take a drive while it’s snowing outside. However, it’s not wise to go out unless you have to. Driving in snowy, cold weather can be very dangerous, which is why it’s best to stay home. This is because if there’s snow on the road and it’s cold enough, there’s a chance ice can develop. You wouldn’t want to be slipping and sliding along the road or loose control of your vehicle.
Therefore, you shouldn’t venture out in the snow or ice unless you need to. You should always wait for the weather to stabilize before you go out.
Drive Slow
Prevention is the most effective way to avoid unnecessary accidents during winter weather. Speeding in the snow or ice can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and can increase your chances of being in an accident. Therefore, if you have to be out, you can avoid this situation by traveling below the speed limit.
Driving slowly not only grants you better control over your vehicle but will also help you avoid sudden collisions.
Accelerate and Decelerate Slowly
Maintaining vehicle control should be top priority for drivers in the winter. This is because sudden changes in speed on slippery surfaces can put your safety at risk. You should apply pressure to the gas and brake slowly to avoid losing control of your vehicle.
Similarly, the same rules apply when coming to a stop, such as at a light or stop sign. Keep in mind that you need more time to slow down if you’re on an icy road since you have less traction.
Increase Your Follow Distance
Since vehicles need more time to slow down in the snow and ice, you need to increase the distance between you and the car in front of you. If the car in front of you were to slam on its brakes you need enough time to come to a stop. Since your wheels have less traction on snow and ice you need more time to do this.
Bottom Line
The wintertime is riskier for drivers due to poor weather conditions. However, simple tips like driving only when necessary, taking it slow, increasing your following distance, and more can help. Drivers should have little to no problem driving in the winter with these tips we’ve mentioned.
Sources
https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/