5 Tips for Safer Winter Driving

By Staff Reporter Sep 03, 2021 12:52 PM EDT

As the summer breezes begin to cool, residents in the northern states know that winter is just around the corner. While the beauty of freshly fallen snow can seem serene, it's a different story when you have to get out on the road. Driving in winter can be deadly if you don't know how to handle the ever-changing weather.

For those that drive every year on the snow and ice, the experience can be helpful but no guarantee that you won't find yourself in a ditch or an accident. The largest percentage of vehicle collisions happen during the winter months. Due to a lack of preparedness and the slick conditions, thousands of people are injured annually in winter accidents. With the help of these driving tips and a call to Redmann Law, if you are in an accident, you can get through this winter without a scratch.

From slowing down your vehicle in slippery and icy conditions to making sure that you have an emergency kit in the car during the winter months, there are several things that will keep you safe on wintery roads.

Winter Tires

If you live in a region that is lucky enough to have four seasons, including winter, you are already familiar with winter tires. Regular tires are great on dry roads, but with snow and ice-covered highways, you need something different to give you the best grip. Winter tires are designed to give your car as much traction as possible when driving in snow and ice. While they won't always help during extreme conditions and excessive speeds, they can make a big difference to everyday driving. You should switch out your dry weather tires for a good set of winter tires in the fall before the first snow starts to fly. Make sure to replace your spare tire with a winter model in case you end up with a flat during the winter.

Slow Down

One of the most common causes of winter accidents is drivers that are in a hurry and going too fast. On snow and ice, it can take your car more than twice as long to gain the friction it needs to come to a complete stop. When the roads are covered in snow or ice, your best defense is to lighten your foot off the accelerator. While it may take you a fraction of time longer to make it to your destination, you are more likely to arrive alive if you take your time when driving in winter conditions.

Clean Off Your Car

Blowing snow and sleeting rain can greatly reduce your visibility in the winter making the roads a hazardous place. When you don't clear the snow and ice off your vehicle properly, you are adding to your reduced blind spots. Although it may be cold and miserable outside, always take the time to make sure that all of your windows and mirrors are clear of snow so that you can see what is going on in the road around you. Make sure to clean off your headlights so that other drivers can see you clearly.

Emergency Kit

You are ten times more likely to get stranded on the road in the winter than at any other time. Sub-zero temperatures and stormy conditions can make it impossible to do anything other than wait for help to arrive. It is critical to your survival that you have an emergency kit in your car at all times. Here are a few essential items that you should have in your Winter Emergency Car Kit:

● Thermal blanket

● Extra clothes

● Hats and gloves

● Flares or glow sticks

● Water

● Protein-rich snacks

● Candles

● First aid kit

● Shovel

Driving in the winter can be a real hazard. Follow these tips to help you stay safe on the roads this winter.