7 Tips For Driving In Snow

The current winter conditions have made roads dangerous for Winter weather can be dangerous for drivers and travelers. “Winter storms, bad weather, and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.” Here are a few tips to keep you safe and secure on the snowy roads.

1- Get winter tires: Winter tires are made from a specialized rubber compound that has better grip in cold weather, and an optimized tread width. This difference provides extra grip, preventing the car from slipping on snowy and icy roads.

2- Drive smoothly and slowly: Reduce your speed to correspond with conditions. When stopping, avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and pump the brake gently. Avoid locking of brakes on glazed ice as it will cause a loss of steering and control.

3- Get an emergency car kit: It’s always smart to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Have winter safety and emergency equipment in your car. A basic car kit should contain the following:

Ice scraper
Water—plastic bottles that won’t break if the water freezes (replace them every six months)
Blanket
Winter hat and gloves
Extra clothing and shoes or boots
Bottled water
First aid kit with seatbelt cutter
Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
Fire extinguisher
Candle in a deep can and matches
Wind‑up flashlight
Whistle—in case you need to attract attention
Roadmaps
Copy of your emergency plan
Food that won’t spoil, such as energy bars

4- Keep a full gas tank: When driving in bad weather, think caution, plan ahead, and make sure you have enough fuel.

5- Keep your lights on: Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists, even during the daylight.

6- Remember the Three Second Rule: Rear end collisions are one of the most frequent crash types, but if you follow the Three Second Rule you will greatly decrease your chances of rear ending someone. The rule dictates that to be safe, simply leave 3 seconds worth of room between you and the vehicle you are following.

7- Brake before making turns: Brake slowly to reduce speed before entering turns. Once you have rounded the corner you can accelerate again.