The Crittenden Automotive Library

How To Stay Safe While Driving In Winter

How To Stay Safe While Driving In Winter

Lucy Wyndham
4 January 2018

Photo by Alexandre Tsuchiya on Unsplash

The winter season is in full blast, and as some parts of the country are gearing up for blinding snow and hurricane-force wind gusts, it appears that staying indoors is the most sensible thing to do to minimize the risk of injury. However, there are times that you may have to do some driving in the snow, and apart from being inconvenient, being on the road during the winter season is fraught with danger. According to a survey, car accidents in wintry weather have killed 4,000 Americans over the past five years. Driving safely in the snow can be a challenge even for the most experienced driver, but there are ways to avoid getting into an accident while you’re on the road. Here are some tips to stay safe while driving in winter.

Prepare your vehicle for winter driving

Before driving in cold and snowy weather, it’s important to get your vehicle ready to avoid skidding, stalling, or getting into a car crash. Check your tire pressure, car battery, gas, and other fluids. Replacing your regular tires with snow tires can also help to keep you safe while on the road. Before leaving your home, clear your windows, headlights, and taillights of snow and dirt and warm up your car for a few minutes before pulling out of your driveway.

Dress appropriately and prepare for emergencies

Dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for driving. Consider bringing a few blankets, some food and water, a flashlight, a first aid kit, jumper cables, emergency lights, and a cell phone and car charger just in case your car stalls or you get snowed in while you’re on the road. You should also let people know where you’re going and tell them your expected time of arrival so that they can call for help in case you get stuck or delayed. If you do get snowed in, stay inside your vehicle to keep warm and to make it easier for rescuers to find you.

Practice safe driving habits

When you’re driving in the snow, practicing safe driving habits is a must to avoid accidents. Drive slowly and don’t stomp on the brakes to avoid stalling your vehicle—apply the brake slowly and smoothly each and every time. Look farther down the road than you usually do and put some distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you. It’s also a good idea to place your phone inside the glove compartment so you can stay focused while driving.

Being prepared and practicing safe driving habits can mean the difference between life and death when you’re behind the wheel and dealing with snowy weather conditions. Follow these tips to stay safe while you’re driving in winter.