Mastering Winter Weather Driving

Essential Tips for Safe Travels

Winter driving can present unique challenges that even the most experienced drivers must carefully navigate. From icy roads to reduced visibility, the keys to staying safe are preparation, caution, and a few extra considerations. Here are some essential tips to help you master winter weather driving.

Plan Your Trip

Before heading out on the road, it is crucial to have a plan. Know your destination and how long it should take to get there, and always add extra travel time to account for unpredictable weather conditions. Checking the weather forecast and road conditions along your route ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected delays. You should also consider alternatives in case roads are impassable and keep in mind that weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous or rural areas.

Proper Vehicle Preparation

A well-prepared vehicle is your first line of defense against winter road challenges. Key components like tires, brakes, and windshield wipers play a critical role in handling winter conditions. Additionally, having a set of emergency supplies can be a lifesaver in case you get stranded or encounter an emergency situation. Consider the following:

• Snow Tires: Equip your vehicle with snow tires for better traction on slippery roads. Snow tires offer more grip and perform better in cold, snowy conditions than all-season tires.
• Tire Maintenance: Ensure tires are properly inflated and have good tread depth to help prevent skids. Check tire pressure frequently as it can drop in colder temperatures.
• Pre-Trip Inspections: Before winter sets in, perform a thorough check of your vehicle. This includes checking the battery, ensuring fluid levels are adequate, and verifying that your windshield wipers are in good condition.
• Emergency Supplies: Pack your vehicle with essential emergency items such as jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, blankets and/or warm clothing, a shovel, an ice scraper, non-perishable snacks, water, a charged mobile phone with a portable charger, and sand, salt, or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck.

Always Buckle Up

Seatbelts are a simple yet effective way to increase your safety on the road. Regardless of the distance or conditions, always buckle up. It is a proven lifesaver.

Adjust Speed for Road Conditions

Even if you are familiar with a particular route, winter conditions can significantly change how you should drive. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility require a substantial reduction in speed. Slower speeds provide more reaction time in case you encounter a skid or a sudden obstacle. Always reduce your speed to match road conditions and be extra cautious when visibility is poor due to snow, fog, or even rain.

Be particularly wary of black ice, which forms commonly at night or in the early morning. This invisible hazard is especially dangerous on bridges, overpasses, and in shaded areas such as the roads beneath overpasses. Although it may not be visible, reducing your speed in these areas can help prevent accidents and give you more time to react if you start to slide.

Use Caution on Curves and Inclines

Curves and inclines are particularly hazardous during winter driving because they can cause vehicles to lose traction more easily. A sharp curve or a sudden steep incline can cause your vehicle to slide off the road. To avoid this:

• Reduce speed well in advance of any curves or hills.
• Take turns slowly and smoothly to avoid skidding.
• Drive in the right lane where possible, since it’s often more traveled and cleared of snow or ice.

Recognize the Dangers of Overcorrecting

If your vehicle begins to skid, it’s natural to feel panicked, but overreacting can worsen the situation. Instead, try to stay calm and follow these steps to regain control of your vehicle:

• Stay calm: Remember to breathe.
• Steer gently into the skid: This helps you regain traction and control.
• Avoid slamming on the brakes: This can cause your tires to lock and increase the risk of a spin. Instead, release the accelerator to begin slowing down and pump the brakes gently if necessary.
• Know how to handle anti-lock brakes: If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply firm, steady pressure to the brake pedal. ABS will prevent the wheels from locking and allow you to maintain steering control.

By keeping these winter driving tips in mind and remaining cautious, you can navigate winter roads with greater safety and confidence. Remember, preparation and caution are your best allies against the challenges of winter weather driving. From planning your trip and preparing your vehicle to adjusting your speed and handling skids with care, a mindful approach to winter driving can make a significant difference. Stay safe this winter season, and if you’re looking for more safety tips, contact your Risk Control Consultant. Check the button below to find a BITCO agent near you.

For information purposes only. BITCO's blog content does not address all potential circumstances and is not a substitute for business, safety, or legal consultation.