Do you also scare at the site of snow on the roads? Learn all about the safest methods for driving home in winter weather.
I’ve always been a very defensive driver. There are so many ways to cause an accident, but just as many to avoid one.
Driving in the snow is tricky, because it takes practice but should also be avoided. Before my children received their first driver’s licenses, I didn’t have a chance to really show them what to do in a weather emergency, but I did make sure to share these three tips for driving safely in the snow.
With the snow storms this year, I want to make sure my readers are aware of what to do when you have no choice but to drive in bad weather.
1. Slow down
When driving in the snow, the most important thing to remember is that if you try to go too fast, you won’t be able to steer. Take every turn much, much slower than you normally would.
Kids are out to play in the winter weather with snowboards and sleds. Don’t forget that you’re also sharing the road with everyone on foot. Lanes and traffic signs are hard to distinguish, so take your time.
2. Avoid going uphill
If you’re between driving home or not, think about the roads you’ll have to take. If you can think of any big hills, then don’t bother. Icy roads are bad enough, but getting stuck halfway up a hill is the worst!
If you still must drive, you’ll need to build a good deal of momentum as you approach the hill. Once you’re most of the way up the hill, don’t push on your gas pedal very hard or else your wheels will spin. Instead, go into the hill with enough momentum to lightly apply the gas and nudge yourself over the top.
3. Try not to use your breaks
Now, this tip is what takes practice. It’s best to avoid driving in the ice and snow instead of learning how to do this, but if you must drive in bad conditions, you should learn how and when to avoid coming to a complete stop.
When you approach a red traffic light, try to coast to a stop and only use your breaks very gently. If you can, try to maintain your momentum through to when the light turns green. If you must come to a complete stop, when you move forward again, try not to push down very hard on your gas pedal, or else your wheels might spin.
If you hit either your breaks or your gas pedal too hard, your tires may lose traction and start to slip. Driving on the ice is so tricky that it’s best to just not go out in bad weather. Instead, accept any offers to stay a while longer with your friends and family.
Do you have any great tips for driving home safely in the snow? Share your thoughts in the comments below!