In this article, we will talk about how to drive safely in the snow? Snowy conditions can create difficulties for drivers and may even result in an accident. This is why preparing yourself before taking off on your journey in the snow is essential.
It’s important to know How to drive in snow safely? and also think about different driving methods when you’re faced with challenging conditions.
How to drive in snow safely?
- Wear dry and comfortable shoes
- Start slowly, use low revs, then shift to a higher speed as fast as possible.
- Use the second gear, as this will reduce wheel slip; certain cars come with a winter mode that performs the same function, so make sure to verify that your vehicle has this feature in the manual of your vehicle.
- Make sure you are speeding correctly and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead, leaving more than 10 times the recommended distance.
- Be prepared for an uphill run by allowing plenty of space in front of you so that you can keep a steady speed without having to change gears.
- Make use of a lower gear when driving downhill. Try not to stop braking unless required. Make sure to allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you.
- When you approach an intersection, you should brake before moving on the wheel. If your car loses grip, don’t panic, and the most important thing to do is to get your foot off the accelerator and ensure that the wheels are pointed in the direction you intend to go.
- If you happen to encounter the possibility of a skid, gently steer into it. For instance, when the rear of your car slides to the right, turn towards the left. Don’t lift your hands off the steering wheel or put your foot on the brakes.
- When driving in snowy conditions, ensure that you utilize dipped headlights. Relying on the daytime running light is not enough as they aren’t always putting lights at the rear of your vehicle.
- Turn the fog light on if visibility is reduced to less than 100m. Be sure to switch them off once visibility increases.
- If the road hasn’t been gritted, be cautious of driving on wheel tracks or in other vehicles because the packed snow will be more slippery than fresh snow.
- Controls like the brakes, the accelerator, steering, and even gear changes must be controlled smoothly and gradually.
- Sunglasses are a great way to cut down the glare caused by the low winter sun shining on the snow.
- Reduce your speed and allow for more space to slow down and turn
- Finally, it is essential to consider the surroundings you’re driving through, particularly microclimates that may be visible along the route. They are the areas the sun doesn’t have enough time to the surface and could remain icy even after another road is thawed. Bridges are an excellent illustration. They’re typically the first to freeze and the last to be thawed. Therefore, be aware when you’re driving through wide spaces.
How to Reduce your anxiety while driving in winter or snow?
Dark and gloomy days, cold weather, slippery roads, and high traffic volumes – all these things can cause you to feel nervous while driving during winter. However, you can overcome your worries by using these suggestions to help you feel more comfortable driving in winter.
Pack your winter-related emergency kit with everything you’ll require if your vehicle stops working or is stuck in the snow. It includes an ice scraper for warning triangles, a first aid kit shovel, and more.
Recheck and check again
Before setting out on your trip, ensure your vehicle is ready for the cold roads. Check that your car is running sufficient fuel, that the tires are fitted with snow chains in case you’re driving through snow, your headlights are in good condition and functioning well, the antifreeze is replenished, and you’ve tucked away from your winter survival kit in your car, and the list goes on.
Remain calm
In winter, driving may mean longer trips than normal due to congestion. When you’re driving, be sure to stay at a safe distance. You must ensure that you’re taking every precaution to stay secure, such as maintaining a safe stop distance, using your headlights and indicator, and traveling slowly to ensure that you feel secure while driving.
Make yourself ready for the most terrifying.
The breakdowns and accidents rise in winter due to the slippery roads and snow. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of what you can do if you are in such a scenario.
The fact that you have a winter kit with you doesn’t suffice. It is also important to learn what you can do with these products correctly to get your vehicle up and running. Learn how to change a flat tire, jump-start an automobile, fit chains for snow, and so on.
Get a Pass Plus certification.
It is also possible to seek assistance from a professional master driving in icy and snowy conditions. You can do this by obtaining a pass plus certificate.
The course is six hours long and will prepare you to drive in various circumstances, including in bad weather. This will help you become more confident not just driving through winter but also taking on other difficult roads, like motorways or driving in the dark.
FAQ about how to drive safely in the snow?
How fast should I drive in snow?
Limit your speed to half if you must travel through snow and ice. For instance, if you typically travel 60 miles per hour on the highway, lower your speed by 30 miles/hour.
How do I drive with snow chains on tires?
Snow chains are a viable option for driving in snow. But, you shouldn’t drive more than 30 miles an hour using snow chains; they’re only an interim solution. Get rid of the snow chains immediately, or avoid driving with them if you intend to travel at a speed of more than 30 miles per hour.
What are the dangers of driving on snow and ice?
- Light snow is more hazardous on roads. A thin dusting of snow on the roadway is much more hazardous than the snow covering the road because it melts and then re-freezes into a slick of ice, which you cannot discern due to the hot road. Ice is also less slippery than snow and can provide less traction for your tires.
- Black ice. The black ice layer is of ice on the pavement at night, which is difficult to spot because it’s translucent. Avoid driving in the dark following the snowstorm if it is.
- Low visibility. Blowing snow and foggy windows make it difficult to see clearly. If you cannot discern where you are, others likely have the same issue.
- Slippery roads and the loss of traction. Losing traction on the road when tires aren’t able to control or move the vehicle safely can lead to losing control over your car. This is the reason why you should avoid driving when you can.
What do I do if I skid on ice or snow?
- Take your foot off the pedal. This stops the wheels from turning. Make sure you are using your brakes instead.
- The brake pedal should be pressed with a steady pumping motion. Many vehicles come equipped with anti-lock brakes. The vehicle will sense the skid and automatically compensate by slowly rotating the wheels when you press the brakes. It should be possible to sense this happening.
- Keep your car away from any skiing. If you see your car beginning to skid toward the right side, steer it to the left. If you notice your car skidding to the left, steer towards the right. Make sure you don’t like oversteering. Gradually and gently guide the vehicle in the right direction.
