Driving in winter can be challenging due to slippery road conditions. Snow and ice reduce traction, making it harder for your tires to grip the road. You can review advice for winter driving and take drivers ed to help increase your safety behind the wheel. Here are some of the winter driving skills you can learn:
Drive Slowly
When you encounter snowy conditions, gradually handle the steering wheel to adjust your direction. Drivers ed encourages a gentle touch on the accelerator to prevent sudden bursts of speed that could lead to loss of traction. Gradual acceleration promotes better tire grip and allows you to maintain stability.
When you approach a stop sign, slow down. Gradually ease off the gas pedal and apply gentle pressure to the brakes. This approach allows for a smoother and more controlled stop, reducing the risk of hitting the car in front of you.
When stopping on a slippery surface, avoid sudden or harsh braking. Pump the brakes gently, allowing your vehicle’s tires to maintain traction with the road. This method can prevent your wheels from locking up and help you avoid becoming stuck in snow or ice.
Stay Visible
Turn on your headlights to increase your vehicle’s visibility when driving in low lighting or unclear weather conditions. Check that your headlights and taillights are functioning before taking to the road. Use your turn signals properly, as taught in drivers ed classes, so that other drivers can anticipate your actions. Clearing snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows, mirrors, and lights also contributes to your visibility.
Leave Extra Distance
The road’s surface may be slippery due to snow, ice, or slush. Keeping a safe distance gives you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows down or stops.
A vehicle’s braking distance increases during winter. Cold temperatures affect the performance of your brakes, making them less effective. By maintaining a greater gap, you provide yourself with extra room to slow down gradually. This may reduce the risk of losing control or skidding into another car.
Take Control of Your Vehicle
Icy and snowy road conditions can cause your vehicle to lose traction. By using cruise control, you relinquish immediate control over your vehicle’s speed, which can be risky. Sudden changes in weather or road conditions may require you to quickly adjust your speed to stay safe. With cruise control engaged, you may take precious seconds to disengage it and regain manual control.
Winter driving often involves encountering other vehicles, such as snow plows or slower-moving traffic. Without cruise control, you have greater flexibility to adapt your speed to the surrounding traffic flow.
Get Your Winter Equipment Ready
Snow tires have deep treads that provide better traction and allow you to maintain control in winter weather. Properly inflate these tires for optimal performance.
An ice scraper can help you clear your windshield before driving. Keep a sturdy shovel in your trunk to dig your car out of the snow if necessary. Also, pack some sand or cat litter to provide traction under your tires.
Check your vehicle’s battery, brakes, and heating system before winter sets in. Cold weather can be tough on your car, so schedule regular maintenance to help prevent breakdowns.
Watch Out for Animals
Some animals may tend to move less during winter, but keep your eyes open and be prepared for any sudden movements. Animals like deer and moose are attracted to salted roads, licking them for their salty taste and increasing the possibility of animal-related accidents.
Enroll in a Drivers Ed Class Today
Taking drivers ed equips you with the necessary driving techniques to reduce the risks associated with winter driving. Preparation is key, so make sure to equip your vehicle with proper tires. By taking proactive measures, you can navigate the winter roads with confidence.
