Safety Tips for Driving in the Snow
Here in Green Bay, we have already seen some snowstorms that made driving more dangerous. If you are someone not very experienced in driving in snowy conditions, getting on the road seems quite daunting. Of course, the best way to stay safe while it is snowing is to not drive at all. However, you may not have that option if you must go to work or have an emergency. So, here are some safety tips for driving in the snow.
[ READ MORE: Benefits of Driving with Snow Tires ]
Drive Slow and Leave Plenty of Distance
The biggest danger of driving in the snow is the inability to stop if your tires lose traction. As snow accumulates and ice forms, the chances of your car skidding drastically increases. By driving too fast or not leaving much room, you will likely crash into the car in front of you or slide off the road into the ditch.
Accelerate and Decelerate Slowly
Accelerating quickly on slippery roads will cause the wheel to spin but the vehicle to skid. You can avoid skidding by slowly pressing the gas pedal. In addition to leaving plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you, you will also want to decelerate slowly. Braking too hard will cause you to skid and lose control of your vehicle.
Avoid Driving Up and Down Hills
Hills are very scary to drive on in the snow. Giving your car gas while going up a snowy hill will simply cause the wheels to spin. If you must make it up a hill, get inertia while approaching the hill and allow that to carry you up to the top. Descending a snowy hill can be just as terrifying as you may not be able to slow down. Therefore, it’s best to avoid these altogether.
[ READ MORE: When to Get a Car Wash ]
In addition to these tips, it’s important to make sure your car is equipped with snow tires that are properly inflated, replace bad brakes, have an emergency kit available, and put extra time aside to get to your destination. For more tips and tricks like this, follow the Broadway Automotive blog!
