Driving during the winter months can be daunting, especially when roads are covered in snow or ice. The Renton car accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm report that driving in these conditions can increase the chances of serious accidents occurring. While the best approach is to avoid driving in snow and ice, that isn’t always possible.
With proper preparation and careful driving techniques, you can reduce the risks associated with driving in snowy weather. To help prepare yourself for driving in the snow this winter, here are some helpful tips that you can adopt to help keep yourself safe.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Before venturing out on the snowy and icy roads, it is important that you prepare your vehicle for these conditions. First, you will want to check your tires to ensure that they are in good condition and are not too worn down, as this makes them more prone to slipping.
If you live in an area where it snows frequently, it may be worthwhile to invest in winter tires that provide better traction in these conditions. In some cases, you may be required to put tire chains on to help you maneuver more safely on the road.
Next, you will want to make sure that your windshield wipers are working properly, as snow and ice can make it difficult to see. Finally, make sure that your car battery is charged and that all of your lights are functioning properly.
Plan Your Route
Planning your route ahead of time can make the world of a difference when driving in snowy conditions. Check the weather forecast and road conditions, as well as any alerts regarding accidents or road closures. If possible, you will want to take main roads that are more likely to be plowed and salted.
Give Yourself Extra Time
When driving in the snow, it is important that you give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Leaving early allows you to drive cautiously without the added pressure of running a tight schedule.
Speeding in snowy conditions greatly increases your chances of losing control and getting into an accident. Additionally, road closures may require you to take an alternative route that will take you longer than anticipated to get to your destination.
Avoid Sudden Speed Changes
Abrupt speed changes, whether accelerating or braking, can cause your vehicle to lose traction on icy roads. When accelerating, be sure to do so slowly to gain traction and avoid spinning your wheels. When coming to a stomp, press the brakes gently and allow yourself plenty of time to come to a complete stop.
If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply firm pressure to the brake pedal, and, if it doesn’t, gently pump the brakes to prevent them from locking up.
Increase Following Distances
In normal conditions, drivers are recommended to keep a three-second following distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them.
In the snow, however, this distance should be increased to about six or eight seconds to account for the longer stopping distances required on icy or snowy roads. This extra space also gives you time to react in case the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows or stops.
Stay Alert
Staying alert at all times while driving is important no matter the weather, but it becomes even more crucial in snowy or icy conditions given the unpredictability of such situations. Therefore, avoid all distractions, keep both hands on the steering wheel, and focus on the road ahead. Even a split second of inattention can result in fatal consequences.
