According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 70 percent of American roadways are in snowy regions and more than 1,300 people are killed annually on snowy or icy roads. Making sure you’re ready to drive on those roads this winter can save your life, or the life of someone you love.
Be Sure Your Car Is Ready for the Weather
If you’ve parked your car outside, it’s likely covered in snow or ice. Do yourself a favor and clear the windows so you can see what’s going on. Don’t forget to clear off any snow from the top of the car as well. Snow flying from your car can cause visibility problems for other drivers, or even strike other cars and cause damage. In some places, the law requires that you clear that snow from your car.
Your tires are the only thing on your car that touches the ground. As such, tires are critical pieces of safety equipment — especially when roads turn frosty. Be sure that your tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated. Depending on how often you encounter snow or ice in your driving, you might also consider winter tires.
It’s not something you’ll like to think about, but when the roads are truly nasty it can take time for rescue crews to reach you should you have a problem. Keep the fuel tank close to full so you can keep the heat going if you get stuck. Stock your trunk with a DIY winter survival kit, including warm clothes, blankets, an ice scraper and a flashlight so you can wait out a rescue.
Drive Smoothly and Slowly
SLOW DOWN! It’s better to be a few minutes late than not arrive at all, right? If the forecast calls for nasty weather, wake up early and get on the road so you can give yourself more time.
Plus, driving fast in nasty winter weather is an invitation for disaster. Slippery roads from snow or ice dramatically lengthen the distance you need to a stop. Speed adds even more to that distance.
Avoid abrupt maneuvers. Be gentle with every part of you that touches the car, from your feet on the pedals to your hands on the steering wheel. Sudden steering can induce a skid.
Another thing to consider — if you can avoid slamming on the brakes, do so. Applying your brakes firmly can lock up your tires, causing a skid. Further, maintaining momentum will help you from getting stuck. If you can see down the road that you might need to slow down for a red light, start slowing down simply by letting off of the gas pedal. This allows your car to gradually decrease speed with a lessened chance of losing control.
