Driving in the Snow

Driving can be challenging even for the most seasoned drivers when snow and ice are involved. Although you should only get on the road when absolutely necessary, you can safely drive in winter weather with proper preparation and extreme caution behind the wheel.

TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE SNOW

If you’re driving in wintry conditions for the first time, or just need a refresher, here’s how to safely drive in the snow and ice.

BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD

Winterize Your Car

You can do several things to winterize your car for maximum winter driving. Inspecting your tires is one of the best ways to ensure your car is ready for winter. Your tires need plenty of traction to help you stay on the road safely, so consider taking your car to a mechanic who will tell you whether your tires are okay or need replacement. If you need new tires, consider switching to winter tires specifically designed for the snow.

Remove Snow and Ice 

To ensure you drive safely on winter roads, remove any snow and ice from your vehicle so you have an unobstructed view in all directions. Before clearing your windows, start your car and set the airflow to defrost with the maximum fan speed and temperature. Then, use a scraper or brush to remove snow and ice from the roof, trunk lid, hood, and all the windows. Once the inside and outside of your windows are fully defrosted, you can put your car into drive and hit the road.

If something goes wrong while driving on winter roads, you want to ensure you’re prepared to handle the situation. Here are some essential items you should have in your emergency preparedness kit:

• Jumper cables
• Flashlight and batteries