An aerial view of a car in the snow

Tips for Driving Safely in the Snow

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According the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, 24% of weather-related crashes happen on roadways with snow, slush, or ice. Winter weather can decrease traction and create dangerous driving situations. If you find yourself having to venture out during a winter storm, here are some driving tips to help you reach your destination safely.

1. Drive slowly and smoothly.

Because snow, slush, and ice can make roadways slippery, it’s important to go slow. Accelerate slowly, brake slowly, and turn slowly. Sudden or jerky movements can cause your vehicle to lose traction and slip or skid.

2. Increase following distance.

Under ideal driving conditions, it’s generally recommended to keep at least 4 seconds of following distance between your vehicle and any vehicles traveling in front of you. You should increase this distance when driving in winter weather, doubling it on wet roads, tripling it on snowy roads, and increasing it even more on icy roads. By increasing your following distance, you lower the risk of colliding with another vehicle when they need to make a stop.

A glowing yellow traction control dashboard light icon on a black background

3. Pay attention to your traction control.

Most newer vehicles are outfitted with traction control systems that will engage automatically when your vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road. If you notice this light flashing, it means your tires are slipping. Ease off of the accelerator so your tires have a chance to grip the road again. This light may also flash while you’re turning and you can solve this the same way by easing up on your speed.

4. Avoid making unnecessary stops.

If you are able to avoid stopping, it can be easier on you and your car. Starting a car from a complete stop on roads that are snowy or slippery can be difficult. If you come to a stop light and you’re able to slow down enough to keep your car rolling until the light changes, you should do so.

5. Don’t rely too heavily on All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive.

Although AWD and 4WD can make a big difference in how much traction your vehicle has, neither system can account for stopping or turning in slippery conditions. It might be easy to feel a false sense of security if your vehicle has either AWD or 4WD, but you still need to approach stops and turns with care.

6. Don’t panic if you start to skid.

It can be easy to skid on slippery roads. If you start to skid, stay calm. Avoid slamming on the brakes. Ease off of the accelerator and steer the car in the direction you want to go. In most cases, your vehicle should be able to regain traction fairly quickly. If, however, you’re in a bad skid and an impact is unavoidable, plant your foot firmly on the brake.

A glowing yellow ABS dashboard light icon on a black background

7. Utilize your anti-lock brake system.

Anti-lock brakes, sometimes called ABS, can help as a last resort. If you need to use your car’s ABS, push the brake pedal down hard and don’t let up. Your vehicle’s computer should take over and keep the wheels braking on whatever traction is possible. You can continue steering with your ABS engaged—the vehicle’s computer will accommodate for this.

8. Do not use cruise control.

Cruise control can be a very handy feature, especially on long highway trips. But cruise control should only be used during ideal driving conditions. If there is rain, sleet, snow, or any sort of weather that could cause slippery roads, do not use it. In bad weather, cruise control can cause tire-spinning or vehicle slipping.

Keep your vehicle winter-ready with Restored Auto, LLC.

At Restored Auto, LLC, we can help you with winter maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. From winter tires to alignment to protective frame spray, Restored Auto, LLC is your one-stop shop for winter maintenance. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

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