Driving in snowy or icy conditions can be treacherous. It’s best to stay off the roads if possible, but if you must venture out, follow these tips to get to your destination safely.
Before you head out in dangerous driving conditions, make sure you have some non-perishable food, water, any necessary medications, a flashlight, a blanket, and a fully charged cellphone. Keep your gas tank at least half-full and make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Tell someone where you’re going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to arrive so someone can look for you or alert the authorities if you don’t arrive when expected.
Slow down if the roads are snowy or icy. Even if they have been plowed recently, there may still be slick spots. Don’t use cruise control when driving on snowy or icy roadways.
Leave more space than you normally do between your car and other vehicles so you’ll have extra time to stop if necessary. Give large vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, plenty of room.
Change speeds slowly. Trying to accelerate quickly will make it hard to get traction, and your wheels will probably just spin without the car going anywhere. Slamming on the brakes can make the car slide. Instead, apply firm, steady pressure to the brake pedal.
It takes more energy to start from a complete stop on snowy or icy roads, so try to avoid coming to a full stop. If you see a red light, slow down and try to keep rolling until it turns green. If you have to climb a hill, get some inertia on a flat section of road to help you go up the hill. When you get to the top, ease off the gas and reduce your speed as you go down the other side.
If you need to go around a corner, slow down while the car is moving straight, turn without putting a foot on either pedal, then straighten the wheel before you begin to accelerate. That will help you avoid sliding.
If your car starts to slide, don’t turn the wheel abruptly in the other direction. Instead, straighten the wheel and let the vehicle’s electronic stability control sensors help the car regain traction.
If you get stuck in heavy snow, stay in your vehicle, since it will provide shelter. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place a cloth in a rolled-up window to make the vehicle visible and to alert someone passing by that you need help.
Get Snow Tires
Winter tires provide much better traction than all-season tires. If you frequently drive in the winter, investing in a set of snow tires can reduce your risk of getting into an accident. Contact Tire Country in Enfield, Connecticut, today to get an estimate or to schedule an appointment.
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