6 Tips for Staying Safe on the Road in Winter Conditions

Driving in wintery conditions can be perilous, especially if there is snow on the ground, ice on the roads, or if it's below freezing outside.

Sometimes driving is necessary, but it's more challenging when you are unfamiliar with the roads, if you have an unfamiliar car, or have to drive after dark.

The biggest tip for staying safe is to be prepared for snow. There are different types of snow, and different driving conditions to be aware of, but you should be aware of the road conditions, especially after dark.

Making sure you keep your gas tank full so you have plenty of fuel for long distances is one way in which you can be prepared.You certainly don’t want to run out of gas in sub-zero temperatures!

Here are some more tips to help you stay safe while driving in wintery conditions.

Clear The Snow

Watch out for icy neighborhoods, and try to ensure your home and the surrounding areas are clear of snow. Work with your neighbors and share snow blowers to help each other out.

Keeping the snow clear will help to keep you safe by providing you with a firm, straight, and clear path.

Use Raised or Insulated Vehicles

Winter is an excellent time for fresh snow, so use raised vehicles in wintery conditions.

Raised vehicles that have better traction in the snow will help you stay safer on the road when driving around in winter. Make sure to avoid using raised vehicles in slushy or icy conditions however, because it could cause driveways to flood due to uneven ground! If you do use raised vehicles make sure they are wellmaintained and get them checked regularly for any cracks.

Be Familiar With Your Vehicle

Make sure that you are doing everything you can to be familiar with your vehicle.

Cars are not generally made for winter conditions, especially if the vehicle is older. Make sure that all of your lights are working, including high beams, and your windshield wipers.

If you have a newer vehicle, be aware of any anti-lock or stability systems so you know how to handle it in winter conditions.

Keep Your Car In Good Condition

Check your tires because they have a higher chance of going flat in cold weather. In addition, check the frame and suspension to make sure they aren't worn, because a vehicle that's in poor condition will be prone to going out of alignment.

Make sure your windshield wipers are clean and in working condition, as a poorly functioning wiper can leave streaks on the car, where ice could accumulate over time.

Although this may seem like much common sense, if your wipers are dirty, you run the risk of freezing rain spotting the vehicle—which is very dangerous. Make sure you clean or replace them regularly.

Test Your Brakes

Test your brakes periodically when driving in wintery conditions.

Brakes will operate better in warmer temperatures, so in the winter it’s even more important that you are aware of your brakes and whether there is a problem with them. Brakes that don't work properly can result in a crash.

Speed Is Everything: Know it Before You Hit the Road

If you're going to drive on snowy or icy roads avoid speeding as much as possible.

Speeding will make it harder for your car to stop and may wear your tires out faster—which is very dangerous in icy conditions.