Winter driving is more dangerous than it seems. The US Department of Transportation says that more auto accidents that happen on snowy roads claim the lives of around 1,300 people yearly.
More than 110,000 people are also injured annually in winter auto accidents.
These alarming numbers underline the need to be more alert and defensive on the road, especially during winter. Below are some of the tips and strategies that you can employ to lessen the risks of getting into a car accident this winter:
1. Slow down
Slowing down is arguably the most important thing to remember when driving on snowy and icy roads. This should help you maintain and regain control of your vehicle as well as get more time in preparing for dangerous patches like curves and damaged street surfaces.
Accelerate slowly enough to keep traction. Give yourself enough space to slow down at intersections and traffic lights. In short, slow down!
You might remember that your driving instructor taught you the 3 to 4-second rule, meaning your vehicle should be at least 3-4 seconds behind the vehicle in front. When driving in the winter, you should increase this to 6 to 8 seconds. Putting enough space between you and the vehicle you are trailing would drastically reduce the chances of a fatal crash.
2. Prepare your vehicle
It’s a smart move to load up your vehicle with items that you don’t use in fairer weather. For example, you should have winter gear ready in your car. These include a small shovel, snow brush, ice scraper, battery jumper cables, among others.
It is also recommended that you invest in a traction device that can help you in case your car gets stuck in the snow. You simply stick the traction device under the tires to get your car out of a slippery situation. A long red piece of fabric that you can tie to your door handle or antenna, reflective vest and triangles would also come in handy if your car gets stuck and you need help.
You should also have snow boots in the vehicle so that you won’t get wet in case you have to step outside. Getting wet can potentially drop your body temperature to dangerously low levels. Of course, don’t forget the other winter wear essentials like coats, gloves, and hats.
Make sure that there is enough fuel in the gas tank before you head out. This would let you run the engine and stay warm in the event of delays.
Finally, check the exhaust pipe and ensure that it is clear. The last thing you want to happen is for it to be clogged with snow or ice. When this happens and the engine is running, the passenger compartment may be filled with deadly and odorless carbon monoxide.
3. Don’t put too much trust on your vehicle
You may be driving an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle. Or your car may have advanced features like cruise control. But those things won’t completely eliminate the risks of getting into an auto accident this winter.
At best, 4WD vehicles can help you get going on snowy roads. But truth to be told, 4WD cars would still hit a patch of ice just like a front-wheel-drive car if you are not driving safely.
In short, you should practice safe driving even when you are driving a 4WD vehicle. Moreover, give yourself enough space and time to brake and avoid colliding with other motorists.
As for cruise control, this is a vehicle feature that you should not use during the winter. Using it while driving in snow can lead to an accident. Thus, you’d rather keep it off while you drive in winter conditions.
4. Use snow tires
Tires are a critical factor in winter driving because they are the only point of contact between the ground and your vehicle. If the tires lose grip, then you won’t have control over your vehicle. And even though you may have equipped your car with all-season tires, it may not be ready to take on the risks posed by winter driving.
Consider swapping your all-season tires for snow tires if you live in an area with a long winter. Using snow tires is also advisable as soon as the temperature dips below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Winter tires usually have a deep tread with biting edges; capable of cutting into the snow for superior grip. You may also want to invest in snow tires with advanced designs featuring special tread compounds that can grip well in icy roads. Equipping your vehicle with snow tires should help it accelerate faster and stop quicker. You should also have more control when turning the steering wheel.
But then again, winter tires won’t do miracles for you. If you brake at the wrong time, aggressively accelerate, or turn abruptly, then even the best winter tires won’t be able to save you from potential trouble.
Tire pressure should also be reduced during cold weather. High tire pressure can lead to a blowout on the road. You may also encounter a flat tire if the pressure is not reduced, and leave you stranded on the road.
5. Plan ahead
Planning is critical if you want to stay safe on the road during winter. You should check the weather ahead of a trip so that you would know what to expect on the road. If the weather is bad, you might want to consider giving yourself extra time or waiting for the conditions to improve before heading out.
Your dress should also make you comfortable. Bring warm clothing in case you need to get out of the car. Keep those boots, mittens, socks, and hat handy.
And before hitting the road, notify your loved ones and colleagues about your destination and estimated time of arrival.
Remember these things so that you can stay safe and dry while driving in icy roads.