12/04/2025
This is GREAT info!!
5 Tips for Safe Driving in Snowy Weather
1. Snow and ice drastically reduce traction, no matter what you’re driving.
A 4x4 or all-wheel-drive vehicle can help you get moving, but it won’t help you stop. Only dedicated snow tires improve your ability to stop and steer in winter conditions, and even then, you’re not invincible.
2. Use Gentle, Smooth Inputs
Steer, brake, and accelerate with slow, controlled movements. Sharp or jerky inputs can cause your tires to lose grip.
3. Keep a Safe Following Distance
Give yourself at least 6–8 seconds between you and the car ahead. Snow and ice can triple your stopping distance. And if someone in front of you is going “too slow,” be patient. Not every vehicle handles winter the same, and not every driver has the same level of experience. Go around them safely if you can; don't tailgate them.
4. Clear Snow from Your Vehicle
Brush snow off your roof, hood, lights, and mirrors. Snow blowing off your car can blind other drivers or impair your own visibility.
5. Use Your Headlights & Stay Visible
Even in daytime snowfall, using headlights helps you see and be seen. Avoid high beams in heavy snow, as they reflect off flakes and reduce visibility.
What to Do If You Start Sliding on Ice/Snow
Stay calm, look where you want the car to go, and make slow corrective movements.
If Your Back Tires Slide (Oversteer):
1. Take your foot off the gas.
2. Steer into the skid (turn your wheel in the same direction the rear is sliding).
3. Don’t brake suddenly, let the tires regain grip naturally.
If Your Front Tires Slide (Understeer):
1. Ease off the accelerator.
2. Keep the wheel pointed where you want to go.
3. Avoid braking hard; that can worsen the slide.
If You Need to Brake:
With ABS brakes: Press the brake firmly and steadily. Let the system pulse automatically.
Without ABS: Pump the brakes gently to avoid lock-up.
11/25/2025
08/05/2025