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Helpful Tips for Driving in Snow

Driving in the snow can be challenging, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can stay safe. Here’s a helpful guide for driving in snowy conditions:

Before You Drive: Preparation

  1. Check the Weather Forecast:
    • Always check the weather conditions for your route. If a snowstorm or heavy snow is expected, it might be safer to delay or reschedule your trip.
  2. Prepare Your Vehicle:
    • Winter Tires: These are essential for better traction on snow and ice. They are designed to perform better in cold temperatures.
    • Battery: Cold temperatures can affect your car’s battery, so make sure it’s in good condition.
    • Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid: Ensure your wipers are in good working condition and that you have antifreeze windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing.
    • Brakes & Lights: Ensure that your brakes are responsive and all your lights are working properly, especially your headlights and brake lights.
  3. Pack an Emergency Kit:
    • Shovel: A small, collapsible snow shovel can help if you get stuck.
    • Blankets: Keep warm in case you get stranded.
    • Food and Water: Non-perishable snacks and water bottles in case of delays.
    • Flashlight: For visibility in case of breakdowns.
    • Traction Aid: Sand, salt, or cat litter can help you get traction if your wheels get stuck.
    • First Aid Kit: Always good to have a basic first aid kit.
  4. Clear Your Car:
    • Before driving, clear all snow and ice from the roof, windows, mirrors, and lights. Snow left on the roof can slide down and block your view or fly off while driving.

While Driving: Tips for Snowy Roads

  1. Drive Slowly and Smoothly:
    • Snow and ice can reduce traction. Drive at a slower speed than usual to maintain control of your vehicle.
    • Avoid sudden starts, stops, and sharp turns. Use smooth, gradual motions when steering, braking, and accelerating.
  2. Increase Following Distance:
    • Snow and ice increase stopping distances. Maintain at least a 6-8 second gap between your car and the vehicle in front of you.
  3. Use Low Beams:
    • In snowy or foggy conditions, avoid using high beams, as the light reflects off the snow and can impair your visibility. Stick to low beams.
  4. Use Your Brakes Sparingly:
    • If you need to brake, do so gently to avoid skidding. If your car has antilock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure. For non-ABS brakes, pump the brakes gently to prevent a loss of traction.
  5. Stay in the Tracks of Other Vehicles:
    • If there are tire tracks on the road from other vehicles, follow them. These tracks are typically clearer and less slippery than untouched snow.
  6. Avoid Cruise Control:
    • Cruise control can be dangerous in snowy or icy conditions. You need to maintain full control of your vehicle, especially when roads are slick.
  7. Keep Your Gas Tank Full:
    • This can help prevent your fuel line from freezing, and also ensures you have enough fuel in case you get stuck or have to wait for assistance.
  8. Know When to Pull Over:
    • If conditions worsen, it may be safest to pull over to a safe location. Don’t continue driving if visibility drops too low, or roads become too slick.

If You Get Stuck:

  1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:
    • If you get stuck in snow, don’t panic. If you’re safe to do so, try to gently accelerate in short bursts. Rocking the car back and forth by shifting between forward and reverse can sometimes help free it from the snow.
  2. Use Traction Aids:
    • If you can safely access them, spread sand, salt, or kitty litter in front of the tires for better traction.
  3. Don’t Spin Your Tires:
    • Spinning your tires can dig you deeper into the snow. Instead, try rocking the car gently or turning your wheel to create a clear path.
  4. Wait for Help:
    • If you can’t free yourself or if conditions are too severe to continue, stay in your car, keep the engine running for short intervals (with the window cracked for ventilation), and call for roadside assistance.

Additional Tips:

  • Know Your Vehicle’s Features: Familiarize yourself with the features of your car, like traction control, stability control, and whether you have AWD or 4WD.
  • Stay Relaxed: Snowy roads require extra attention, but remaining calm can help you make better decisions and avoid unnecessary panic.
  • Plan Your Route: If possible, choose roads that are more likely to be cleared and treated with salt or sand. Highways and major roads are often maintained better than side streets.

By following these tips and staying prepared, you’ll reduce the risks associated with driving in snow. If the weather looks too dangerous, don’t hesitate to delay your trip until conditions improve. Safety always comes first!

Contact Doylestown Auto Repair at 267-279-9477 or visit our website at www.doylestownautoshop.com to schedule an appointment to have your car ready for winter weather!