Driving in snow is hazardous. According to the AAA Foundation, weather conditions and storms contribute to more than 2,000 road deaths every winter. The following tips and information will help you to stay safe on the roads during the winter months.
1. Fit Winter Tires
The best advice we can give you on driving in ice and snow is a quality set of winter tires to improve overall handling. Winter tires have a tread design for extra grip in icy and wet conditions and ensure better control of your vehicle.
2. Keep the Windows and Lights Clean
You need to see well in the snow, and it is vital to keep your windows, headlights, and taillights clean for improved visibility. It also helps to use products on the windows that stop snow and road dirt from building up.
3. Watch the Road Surface
When you are on the road in the snow, watch the road surface for ice to avoid skidding that can cause an accident. Ice is usually in shady areas caused by trees or buildings next to the road. If you drive down a road with lots of trees and shadows, slow down and avoid icy spots.
4. Drive Slowly
When you drive slowly, you have more control over your vehicle. When it’s snowing, you don’t want to suddenly serve out and lose control of your car. Concentrate on the road and be careful when accelerating, cornering, and braking.
5. Leave Room for Braking
When you drive on snow-covered roads, make sure you leave plenty of room for braking. Watch the road ahead and keep a following distance of six to ten seconds. When you need to brake, avoid hard braking and do it as smoothly as possible.
6. Accelerate Gently
In snowy conditions, apply gentle pressure to the gas pedal. If you suddenly accelerate, the wheels could lose traction and spin, and you can lose control of your vehicle.
7. Steer Smoothly
Avoid quick and jerky movements when steering. You should be in control of your steering wheel and move it smoothly. If your vehicle starts to slide, don’t immediately try to steer in the opposite direction. The best thing to do is straighten the wheel.
Modern cars have stability control systems that will steer your vehicle back to the original position. Being too rough on the controls will take the stability control system longer to respond and make corrections.
8. Be Aware of Heavy Vehicles
It takes a heavy vehicle much longer to stop than a car, especially in the snow. If you pass or drive in front of a slow-moving vehicle, especially a truck, give ample space.
A heavy vehicle can’t suddenly come to a stop to avoid an accident. Instead of overtaking, fall back and keep a safe following distance.
The above tips will help you to drive safely in the snow and avoid skidding and accidents. Contact Flood Mazda today. Our team of technicians will help you to get your car ready and safe for winter conditions in the snow and ice.
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