If you live in an area that sees snow during the winter months, you’re likely going to have to drive in it, probably more often than you care to. It doesn’t matter if you’re a new driver or a seasoned driver, driving in the snow can be hectic and nerve-racking. According to the Federal Highway Administration, each year, more than 1,300 people are killed and over 116,800 people are injured in car accidents that occur on roads that are icy, slushy or snowy. There are some mistakes that you can avoid, however, when you are driving in snowy conditions.
Not Removing Snow – Never leave your driveway without completely brushing all the snow off your car. In fact, did you know that in some states it is against the law to drive with snow still on your car? These states include, Alaska, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Wisconsin. Not removing the snow off your car is also a potential hazard to cars driving behind you. When you hit your brakes, the pile of snow on the roof of your car slides right off, right onto the car behind you, blinding their visibility.
Following Too Closely – During snowy conditions, if you follow the car in front of you too closely and you need to slow down or stop suddenly, your reaction time will be a lot less than if you were following at a safe distance. During snowy conditions, you’ll want to have at least 4 car lengths between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Driving Too Fast – Along the same lines of driving too closely, driving at fast speeds also reduces your reaction time. In addition, the risks of being involved in a car accident increases greatly, mainly because it’s easier to lose control and much harder to stop. So, you’ll want to be sure that you slow your speeds greatly in snowy weather.
Driving Improperly on the Ice – When slipping and sliding on icy roads, many drivers have the immediate reaction to slam on their brakes. However, that is the exact opposite of what you should do, since braking will only make the sliding worse. Instead, if it’s the rear wheels that are sliding, take your foot off the gas pedal and gently turn the steering wheel in the same direction the rear wheels are sliding. It it’s the front wheels sliding, again, gently take your foot off the gas pedal and just allow your car to slow down.
Leave a Reply