Snow, ice and sleet – it’s the kind of weather that makes you want to stay inside, and for good reason! Driving in snowy, icy and sleet conditions is dangerous. When it comes to driving in winter weather, preparation is key to keeping your journey safe. Here are some tips to stay safe on icy, snowy, sleety roads this winter.

Safety Tips for Driving in the Snow, Driving in Sleet and Driving in Icy Conditions

Prepare your car before the season starts

Before winter weather strikes, a thorough check of your vehicle and some winterizing tasks will help to keep you safe and warm through the winter season. This checklist can help you get prepared.

Of particular importance, you should ensure your windshield wipers are in good shape, check your tires and consider switching to snow tires, and add an emergency kit, shovel, ice scraper to your vehicle.

Also, don’t underestimate the importance of clean windows and headlights! In a storm, you’ll want your windows and lights clear so that you can see as best as possible and so others can see you.

Avoid travel if you can

The best way to reduce risk in icy conditions and the safest way to drive in snow, ice and sleet is not to drive at all! Be aware of the weather forecast and try to get any urgent tasks completed before a storm hits. Staying at home and off the road during winter storms is your safest option.

Take it slow

In wintery conditions, slow your speed and increase your following distance. Driving slowly and giving yourself more space on the road will allow you more opportunity to react should you or another car start to slide on the ice.

Slowing your speed can reduce the risk of sliding, but not always. Black ice can cause sliding at speeds of 10mph, so it is important to be alert and aware while driving in wintery conditions.

Drive in the tracks of other vehicles

These areas will be drier and will provide your vehicle more traction as you drive.

Beware icy spots

Not all ice is obvious. There could be ice under fallen snow and bridges often freeze faster than the rest of the road. Use visual cues when you can and manage your risk by reducing your speed. Tires with good traction will come in handy during icy conditions!

Know what to do when your car slides on ice

If your car starts to slide, you should gently turn in the direction of the slide. Ease off your accelerator and try not to hard brake, as braking on ice could cause you to slide more.

While it is difficult to do in the moment, try not to panic and make sudden moves to correct yourself if your car starts to slide. Gentle movements are more likely to help you correct your course.

Have a plan if you get stuck

In blizzard or heavy snow conditions, you could get stranded. If this happens to you, stay put unless there is a building nearby. Ensure your tailpipe is clear to keep carbon monoxide from building up.

You should turn off your car and only turn it on for small stretches to keep warm. Each time you turn the car on, check the exhaust pipe to make sure it remains clear. You can do exercises to keep warm in the car, but if you are seated, keep your seatbelt on to stay safe.

That emergency kit you prepared at the start of winter will be essential if you get stranded! Always travel with full phone battery and a backup charger to call for help during winter weather.

If you get overwhelmed, pull over

If conditions get so bad that you can’t see well or you’re starting to panic, slowly try to pull over and get off the road. Choose a safe spot and put on your flashers to make your car visible to others. Do not pull to the side of the road, as this could endanger you and other drivers.

Make sure you’re covered

Winter conditions present different risks than leisurely summer drives, and it is smart to have your auto insurance policy reflect that. Speak with your insurance agent to review whether you should add certain coverages to your policy during the winter months. You can review our checklist to learn more.

When driving during the winter, make sure to have your auto insurance information on hand and that you know who to call should you get in an accident.

Stay safe out there!

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Sources:

http://icyroadsafety.com/faq.shtml
http://www.aarp.org/home-family/getting-around/driving-resource-center/info-08-2013/managing-challenging-road-conditions.2.html
http://www.mazdaoflodi.com/blog/what-to-do-if-your-car-slides-on-ice/
https://weather.com/safety/winter/news/blizzard-survival-tips