About 17% of all traffic accidents in the U.S. happen during winter conditions. However, there are certain things you can do to drive more safely in the snow and reduce your chances of adding to this statistic.
How to Stay Safe in the Snow
Slow down
It’s an obvious one, but it bears repeating. Ignore the speed limit, and only drive as fast as your traction will allow. If you feel the car slipping, you’re probably going too fast.
Accelerate and decelerate gradually
Gradually apply pressure to the gas pedal to get your vehicle moving from a standstill. If you try to accelerate too quickly, you may skid and lose control. And it takes far longer to slow down on slippery roads, so begin a slow and gradual braking process well before you typically would.
Don’t tailgate
As noted above, your stopping distance increases in the snow and ice. So your following distance should also increase.
Get winter tires
Winter tires, or “snow tires,” are designed to deliver better traction on snow and ice and should be outfitted on your car before the first snowfall of the season.
Clear your car
Before heading out, clear off all the snow and ice from all windows and mirrors for maximum visibility. Also clear the snow off your roof so it won’t topple onto your windows while driving.
Make your lights visible
Give your headlights, fog lights, tail lights, and turn signal lights a quick check as winter approaches, and apply a cleaning to the outer covers.
Keep your tires inflated
Tire pressure dips when the temperature does, and under-inflated tires can present an increased risk. Check your tire pressure each time you fill up with gas in the winter.
Don’t use cruise control
You can’t react with the brake pedal as quickly while on cruise control. Plus, winter driving requires more touch-and-go of the gas pedal, especially when cornering. Leave the cruise control off when driving in the snow.
Know your technology
There are various dashboard lights to alert you of the status of things like traction control and anti-lock brakes. Familiarize yourself with any technology your vehicle has related to driving in slick conditions. Many vehicles also have different driving modes, including one that is designed specifically for snow and ice.
Keep a winter emergency kit
When driving in snow, you always have to consider the risk of becoming stranded. Pack a winter emergency kit to keep in your car that includes the following items:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Fully charged cell phone
- Blanket, gloves or mittens, hat, scarf, and boots
- First-aid kit
- Shovel and ice scraper
- Road flares
- Jumper cables
- Non-perishable food and drinking water
Prep for Winter in Madison, WI
One of the best ways to stay safe while driving in the winter is to adequately prepare your car for the conditions. Check out our winter service package, designed to ready your vehicle for the road ahead this winter.
And should you find yourself in a collision, the technicians in our body shop can have your car looking good as new in no time. Start your winter off at Zimbrick Automotive in Madison, Wisconsin, and stay safe out there.
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