How to Deal with Winter Driving - 6 Tips that Could Save Your Life
Driving in winter weather is dangerous. In most cases it is not advised. However, this is not a perfect world and there will be times when travel in snow and ice becomes necessary. There are a few things you should keep in mind to make this dangerous situation as safe as possible.
Go Slowly
The roads can look clear and still be covered in ice. During periods of light snow, the snow can melt on the roads, and additional snow build up can cause the melting snow to form ice. Never assume the roads are okay to travel at with normal speeds. Slow down, take your time. It could save your life.
It is 4 Wheel Drive- Not 4 Wheel Stop
Be smart about driving. Even 4 wheel drive vehicles will have trouble navigating some weather situations. People with 4 wheel drive are often tempted to drive in harsh weather under the false sense of safety that they assume 4 wheel drive will give them. Remember when you are on ice, it does not matter what kind of vehicle you are in, you will be vulnerable.
Turn Off the Cruise
Cruise control is a great feature to have. But in icy or snowy conditions, it is very dangerous to use. Be safe and just turn it off.
Do not Pass
You may be stuck behind a slow moving snow plow or salt truck, but you are much safer staying where you are than trying to pass them. The roads in front of the trucks are likely to be much worse than they are behind, and these drivers will typically have limited visibility.
Dealing with Skids
If your rear wheels start to skid take your foot off the gas pedal. Slowly turn your wheel to the direction the car is skidding. As you start to recover from the skid you may end up skidding the other way. Apply the same actions until you fully recover. If you have ABS do not pump the brakes. You can apply steady pressure instead. For standard brakes, you can pump them gently.
If your front wheels skid you want to take your foot off the accelerator and put the car in neutral. Do not turn the wheel right away. Instead, allow the vehicle to slow down as the wheels skid to the side. Once the traction returns you can start to steer in the direction you wish to go, then put the car back in drive and proceed slowly.
Getting Stuck
It may happen that you end up in an area you can not get out of. It may be tempting to hit the gas and try to move forward, but this will only make the situation worse. Turn your steering wheel to make the wheels move side to side a few times. This will push snow away from the tires. Gently press on the gas pedal and try to ease out. If this does not work, you can use a hand shovel to clear away excess snow from the tires. Use some gravel or cat litter in the wheel path to regain some traction.
About the Author:
Tom Aldridge is the owner of Dale Feste Automotive, located in Hopkins, MN. Tom is also an active board member of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of MN, dedicated to improving Minnesota's automotive service industry and the success of members. Tom makes himself available to customers every day and under his direction, Dale Feste Automotive has achieved a 98% customer satisfaction rating.
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