6 Tips to Drive Safe on Snowy Days

6 Tips to Drive Safe on Snowy Days

Most people love to drive, but driving in snowy weather can be risky, but taking certain precautions can ensure that you have a safe ride during bad weather. This article presents six tips on how to drive safely on snow and ice for a safe drive during the winter months:

  • Be prepared
    One of the essential tips on how to drive safely on snow and ice is to be prepared for bad weather. You need to ensure that you have the right tires, so get winter tires fitted in advance. Also, ensure that the windshield is working fine, and keep an emergency kit with items like a torch, extra warm clothing, a tow strap, and a few granola bars in case you get stuck due to poor weather.
    Additionally, clean the windshield and ensure that it is free of snow. Being prepared is half the battle won.
  • Know the weather
    Driving in inclement weather is not easy, and it is better if you know the weather conditions in advance so that you can avoid stepping out during bad weather. Check the weather conditions on the route that you plan to take and prepare accordingly or change your plan to ensure your safety as well as that of your loved ones.
  • Accelerate and brake carefully
    Accelerating and braking on snowy roads is a challenge, so ensure that you drive slowly so that you don’t have to apply the brakes suddenly. Sudden braking can cause the vehicle to skid. Also, leave a gap of at least 6 to 10 seconds from the vehicle in front of you.
    While driving, gently speed up and avoid sudden acceleration. Also, try to maintain a steady speed, and drive according to the road conditions.
  • Steer carefully
    Steering the vehicle on snowy roads can be challenging and often dangerous. So, don’t twist the wheel suddenly. When taking a turn, you can expect oversteer, which is when the rear tires lose grip and lead to a tight turn.
    Don’t slam the brakes suddenly in such a situation. Instead, turn the wheel in the same direction as the skid and take your foot off the accelerator, without hitting the brakes to regain control. You can then slowly press the accelerator and turn the wheel in the direction you want.
  • Ensure visibility
    Ensure that the windshields are clean and the lights are working, including the emergency lights. While driving in winter, you need to see and be seen by other vehicles clearly, so clean your car daily to remove snow from the lights.
  • Test the traction
    If wondering how to drive safely on snow and ice, ensure that there is no vehicle behind and gently hit the brakes. If the ABS kicks in, it means you’re on a low grip road and need to drive carefully.