15 Safe Driving Tips for Winter
guest post
Driving can be dangerous especially during the winter. The good news is that most accidents can be avoided through defensive driving and safe driving practices.
1. Take corners slower
Icy and snowy roads are the perfect recipe for disaster for cars. There is less traction and it is best to take corners slow to avoid spinning out, over-steering, or under-steering.
2. Allow extra space between cars
In general, this is a good driving practice, but it is especially important with icy roads. Make sure there is plenty of space between you and the car in front of you accounting for the way your brakes perform on ice.
3. Drive slower for conditions
Did you know that you can get a ticket even if you are driving the speed limit if you are driving too fast for conditions? There is a good reason; weather conditions effect the way your car performs.
4. Keep your gas tank half full to avoid gas line freeze-up
For the same reason that you should leave your water dripping during freezing temperatures, keep plenty of gas in your tank so that your gas line doesn’t freeze-up leaving your car useless.
5. Do not use cruise control on slippery surface
It is best to be in complete control of your acceleration and brakes at all times in the winter. Cruise control is intended for use during good weather and can be very dangerous in snow, hail, or even heavy rain.
6. Accelerate slower
Accelerating fast on ice will just make your tires spin faster in place. You have to gradually ease into driving and build up momentum rather than going from 0-60 as fast as you can.
7. Don’t slam on the brakes
Even though some situations tempt you to slam on the brakes, this can be a disaster with icy roads. Slamming on the breaks will likely make your car slid and impact much harder than if you brake slowly in a controlled fashion.
8. Approach hills with momentum
Hills can be really tricky in snow and ice and are best approached with some momentum and speed. Don’t accelerate fast going up a hill or your tires will just spin in place.
9. Check the tires
Keep tires inflated since cold weather can reduce tire pressure
10. Use traction control like tire chains
If you know there will be heavy snow and just have to leave the house, make sure to install tire chains or other traction control devices for safe driving.
11. Check oil, anti-freeze, and battery levels
It is always best to have maintenance and tune-ups completed before winter. If you have a problem in bad weather, the stress can be compounded easily.
12. Clear all windows of snow and ice
Cars have enough blind spots on their own. Make sure that all windows are completely free of obstruction of vision.
13. Wear your seat belt
This is simple, but even more important with increased chance of an accident during the winter.
14. Keep jumper cables on hand
You never know when your car, or someone else’s, will break down. Having jumper cables on hand can be a great way to prepare.
15. Have your cell phone handy
In the event of an accident or your car breaking down, have a cell phone on hand to call emergency or even just a friend for some help.
Keep safe on the roads this winter with the help Vroom Vroom Vroom.
Autoinsurance says
Hey,
Thanks for sharing your safe driving oriented words. Above winter safe driving tips you have shared are really fabulous and helpful to drive your vehicle safely in winter road condition by enjoying cool drive. Informative stuff.....Keep it up..........
Thanks
Thomson John