With the winter rapidly approaching, it’s important to be aware of the safety precautions that need to be taken when driving in snowy conditions. This article will cover 10 things you can do to ensure your safety and stay on the road even after big snow storms or blizzards.
So if you’re a driver in an area that gets heavy snowfall, this article is for you!
Stay tuned: we’ll tackle everything from how to handle accidents and breakdowns to what kind of gas stations are open during emergencies.
Here’s the list of tips discussed in this article:
Stay Calm
It’s important to stay calm and stay focused during storms, because when you’re in a panic, or angry, it creates a lot of distractions. So make sure you’re relaxed and try to focus on what needs to be done.
Go Slow on the Roadways at Night
Warming up your engine is the best way to ensure that it starts up properly when it’s cold out. So don’t try to start your car if there’s still ice on the roads.
And if it’s still snowing and there’s no melted ice on the roads, you may want to wait until morning to start your car. But if the roads are completely clear, and it’s only nighttime – then you should be fine.
Take Care Not to Slip or Fall Out of Your Vehicle
If you want to stay safe, make sure that you don’t fall out of your vehicle while driving in the winter. To do this, you may want to use the traditional grip method of holding the steering wheel.
So grip hold of it, and then place your other hand on top of your thigh, making sure that you have a firm hold on your steering wheel. Also make sure to turn up the defrost in your vehicle and not to accelerate too quickly as it can cause you to slip on the ice.
Carry an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
One of the best ways to stay safe and have an emergency kit in your vehicle is to carry jumper cables and a shovel.
You don’t want to be stuck on the side of a road or stuck in your vehicle due to no power, if you don’t have these items prepared.
Stay Warm!
Every driver should always make sure they’re wearing their seatbelt while driving, even if they’re not in the front seat. You may want to wear a winter jacket, beanie, or gloves.
But make sure you’re keeping the inside of your car warm as well, as yours is the only source of heat in your car during the winter.
Use a Tow Truck if You Break Down
If you break down while driving, then pull over and call for help in advance as it will save you time and stress. Make sure you have jumper cables in case your vehicle runs out of battery power.
Use a tow truck service if you’re in need of assistance.
Snow Emergencies Vs. Blizzards
There are different types of winter storms that are called for different weather conditions, and knowing the difference between the types is important: Snow Emergencies vs Blizzards.
There is a big difference between snow emergencies and blizzards, so knowing what to do in each situation is essential during wintertime.
Snow Emergencies
In a snow emergency, schools, public transit, and other public facilities are not operating. Normally this is because the roads are covered with snow, so there are no safe ways to get around. If you can’t get to work or school, you will have to stay home until the conditions improve.
In some cases for snow emergencies in cities, many cars have been towed away by local authorities due to the high number of vehicles stuck on the road. [READ: How Many People Are Killed On U.S. Roads Each Year?] This can be frustrating, but you need to stay safe and not attempt to drive.
Blizzards
In a blizzard, power outages are the main concern for most people. It is important that you know that during a snow emergency, it is not safe for you or your family to stay at home alone. If possible, do not try and drive in this type of situation.
You should call one of your family members or neighbors and make them aware of what has happened. They may be willing to let you stay at their house.
Tips for Driving in Ice and Snow
Ice is something that drivers should be aware of during the winter months. It can cause your brakes to overheat, wear down your tires and even cause your car to slide.
And when it comes to snow, it can cause cars to slide off the road during heavy or sudden snowfall or if you have a low tire pressure.
Following these tips will help you stay safe and warm during the winter months.