I remember the first time I drove in the snow, it was intense. The feel of the ice under the tires or the snow getting caught up in tires is a whole new experience and completely different than summer driving. My biggest tip for winter driving, have good tires. Check with your dealership to see where the tread is on your tires and if you should replace them before driving this winter. Beyond that, here are a few more tips for driving this winter.
Slow and Steady
Whenever there is inclement weather you should slow down and take it easy. Just because the speed limit is 70 mph does not mean that you should go 70 mph. One of the best things you can do it take it slow when the weather is bad.
Increase Distance Between Cars
Along with slowing down be sure to increase the following difference between you and other cars. It may take you longer to stop or you may not be able to see other cars in front of you very well. Either way, increase the following distance between you and other cars and it could mean the difference of getting into an accident or not.
Know Your Breaks
Each vehicle handles a little different, some have anti-locks breaks some don’t. Be sure to know what kind of breaks your vehicle have so you can anticipate how they will behave when you’re out driving.
Do Not Stop
If you can avoid it, do not stop. Snow is deepest at the bottom of hills, intersections and turn. Stopping could mean that you’ll become stuck and need help getting out. If there is ice under the snow then you may not be able to get gain traction again. So if at all possible, keep moving and avoid stopping.
Steady Speed
Keeping a constant steady speed is best when driving in snowy conditions. You’ll be able to use the constant, steady momentum to keep moving through the snow. If you are speeding up, you risk losing control and spinning out. So if you are on a cycle of speeding up and then putting on the breaks it’s only a matter of time before you hit a patch of ice and lose control.
Stay Home
If you don’t need to go out, don’t. That’s really the best advice about driving during inclement weather. Stay off the road. Stay home. Stay safe.
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