Top 4 Driving Safety Tips For The Winter

With the change of seasons comes inclement weather that can wreak havoc on roadways. Snowy, icy conditions are no match for an underprepared driver. 

However, arming yourself with the proper winter driving safety knowledge can help you feel confident and in control even in less-than-ideal driving situations. 

In this article, we’ll explore the top winter driving safety tips to help keep you and your passengers safe on snowy roads this season.

1. Check Those Tires 

Securing proper tires tops the list for a good reason. The right rubber keeps you gripping slick streets and plowing through fresh snow. All-season tread with decent depth works for milder climates. But the frozen tundra of northern states demands snow tires or chains to supply ample traction. 

Tread depth matters too – the shallower the tread, the less grip and water displacement you get. The general rule says tread depth should measure at least 4/32 inches for snowy locales. Quickly examine depth using the built-in tread wear indicators inside the major grooves. Place a penny upside down within – if you see Abe’s entire head, the treads are too shallow for heavy snow and ice.

2. Prepare Your Ride

A winter car inspection before the first flakes fall helps avoid being stranded out in the cold. Experts suggest hitting these key points:

Battery – Cold saps battery power, so it has to be tested to ensure sufficient cranking power. Inspect terminals and clean any corrosion.

Wipers – Replace worn blades that streak and squeak. Fill wiper fluid with antifreeze types to prevent freezing.  

Lights – Check all exterior lights, head to tail. Carry spare headlight/taillight bulbs.

Fluids – Top off windshield fluid with antifreeze types rated to -30°F. Check coolant/antifreeze levels and condition. Dirty fluid loses effectiveness.

HVAC System – Ensure the heater/defroster delivers ample heat and airflow to clear windows. Cabin air filters should be fresh and clean of debris.

Emergency Kit – Stock an emergency bag with flashlights, battery chargers, first aid supplies, non-perishable snacks, Directions, blankets, flares, sand/salt, jumper cables, and shovels. Also, pack essential medications, baby/pet necessities, etc.

3. Adjust Driving Habits

Snow and ice transform even familiar roads into slippery obstacle courses. Adapting habits to winter conditions greatly minimizes risk. Follow these winter driving protocol basics:

Slow Down –  Maintain proper speed to compensate for decreased traction. Give yourself ample stopping distance in case you need to brake suddenly. Turn and accelerate gently to avoid skidding on slick patches. 

Stay Alert – Keep your eyes active, scanning the full driving environment around you. Traffic, pedestrians, and road conditions can change in an instant. Distractions like phones/talking pull focus. So, avoid multitasking.

Leave Distance – Allow extra room between you and other vehicles – at least 5-6 seconds worth. The extra time and space create a buffer for dealing with sudden stops, spinouts, etc.

Know the limits – If conditions worsen with heavy snow, high winds, or icing, have a backup plan. Either get off the road fully until it clears or find a safe haven like a parking lot/garage to wait it out. 

4. Have Emergency Contacts Handy

Program key emergency numbers into your contacts like state police, local tow services, etc. Know your GPS coordinates or last highway mile marker in case you need to call for help. Unlimited talk/text or satellite communicator services allow contact assistance from anywhere. Regularly monitor devices to ensure adequate battery charge and service coverage across all areas traveled.

The Bottom Line: Leverage These Winter Driving Safety Tips and Get Home Intact

Driving in Old Man Winter isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s inherently dangerous, so it’s always a good idea to prepare both your vehicle and yourself for icy blasts. Drive defensively, adapt to conditions, and know when risks outweigh rewards. Employing these winter driving safety tips will see you pulling up your driveway, not the ER – with frost-bitten toes maybe, but happily safe. You can learn more by checking out guides from local auto lawyers who’ve helped many drivers involved in winter weather accidents.

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