Winter Driving Tips
How to Drive Safely in Winter Conditions
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| Winter Driving Conditions: City Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher |
The 24 hour forecast: 9 inches of snow with gusting winds...
The drive to work tomorrow: not fun...
Here are some winter driving tips to stay safe and get where you are going:
Tip 1: Don't drive if conditions are too dangerous
It's your car and your neck that will be at risk if you drive. If it seems too dangerous to drive, then consider waiting to drive until conditions improve. If you can delay driving for a few hours, this will give snow plows a chance to clear the roads and spread salt and sand. How would you rather spend a couple hours- watching TV and drinking coffee at home, or stuck along the road waiting for a tow truck?Tip 2: Drive while it is light outside
If it is before sunrise, wait until the sun is up- this will improve your ability to stay on the road if visibility is limited. If sunset is approaching, consider driving and getting to your destination before it gets dark.Tip 3: Drive Slowly
Road conditions may be more slippery than you realize... until it's too late. |
| Winter Driving Conditions: Highway Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher |
Tip 4: Easy on the brakes
Hitting the brakes suddenly can cause your vehicle to go out of control, even on a straight road. Leave plenty of room between you and the car ahead so you can avoid sudden braking.Tip 5: Forget full and complete stops
If you are driving on snow covered or really slippery roads, you may not want to stop completely at stop signs unless there is traffic. You can reduce your chances of getting stuck if you slowly and carefully roll through stop signs. Of course this is safe only if you can see that the intersection is clear of traffic.Tip 6: Fill up before the storm hits
You are better off with a full tank of gas when driving in winter weather. If you do get stuck, you can run your engine to stay warm until help arrives. Also a full tank of gas will reduce the chances of fuel line freezing from condensation in the gas tank.Tip 7: Put a coat and boots in the trunk
Prepare for the worst- let's say you slide into the ditch and need to walk a couple miles through a blizzard. Having a coat and boots on board will make this situation a lot more manageable.Tip 8: Clear your windshield, headlights, and brake lights before starting out
This will give you the best chance of arriving safely |
| Winter Driving Conditions: Interstate Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher |
Tip 9: Even 4x4 vehicles are dangerous in slippery conditions
Vehicles like four wheel drive SUVs and pickup trucks have a high center of gravity and can roll over easily if they slide off the road. Be especially careful in slippery conditions if you are driving such a vehicle.Tip 10: Make sure you have your cell phone- and make sure it is charged up
If you do have an accident, having a cell phone available will help you deal with the situation
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