Winter Weather Driving Tips
Winter weather may be unexpected, so planning ahead of time is essential for keeping safe when traveling. Throughout the winter, especially in inclement weather, motorists should practice fundamental winter driving techniques and allot additional time.
This video will show you some winter driving tips.
Driving in Winter Conditions
The Fundamentals
Take it easy. On a slippery or snow-covered surface, it is more difficult to steer or stop your car. In reality, there were an expected 119,000 police-reported collisions in snowy weather in 2020. Increase your following distance on the road so that you have adequate time to stop for cars ahead of you.
Don't swarm a snow plow or drive beside it. Snow plows go slowly, make wide curves, regularly halt, overlap lanes, and quit the road. If you find yourself behind a snow plow, keep a safe distance behind it and use caution if you pass the plow.
What to Do in an Emergency
Stay vigilant on yourself and your passengers, your car, and your surroundings if you are stopped or stuck in winter conditions.
Stay with your automobile and avoid overexertion.
Allow your vehicle to be viewed. Keep the inside dome light turned on and put bright marks on the antenna or windows.
Carbon monoxide poisoning should be avoided. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow, and only operate your automobile when necessary – just long enough to remain warm. Do not leave your automobile running for extended periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed place.
Changes You May Notice
Tires
As the temperature outside lowers, so does tire inflation pressure. Check that each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended inflation pressure, which may be found in your owner's handbook and on a label on the driver's side door frame. Do not pump your tires to the pressure recommended on the tire. That figure represents the maximum pressure that the tire can withstand, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
Car Seats
Two youngsters in vehicle seats, one wearing a puffy coat and the other not.
Parents frequently clothe their children in winter jackets in colder weather. Heavy jackets, on the other hand, can interfere with a child's correct harness fit in a car seat. Choose thin, warm clothes and wrap blankets or coats around your child when the harness is snug and secure in the car seat for added warmth.
Batteries
When the temperature drops, so does battery power. In cold weather, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start, and electric and hybrid-electric vehicles’ driving range can be reduced. Have a mechanic check your battery, charging system, belts, and for any other needed repairs or replacements.
Technologies for Safety
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's safety technologies and how they work in winter circumstances. Learn if your car has an antilock brake system and how to utilize it appropriately. Anti Lock brake systems keep your wheels from locking up when you're braking. Apply forceful, steady pressure to the brake pedal if you have antilock brakes. If you don't have antilock brakes, you may need to pump them if you see your wheels locking up.
Mats for the Floor
Because of the slippery winter weather, you may want to replace your standard floor mats with thicker or rubberized ones. Improperly fitted floor mats in your car may obstruct the operation of the accelerator or brake pedals, increasing the danger of a collision. Follow the manufacturer's directions for mat installation and fasten the mats using retention clips. Use only mats that are the suitable size and shape for your car.
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