24 Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

Seasonal Automotive Maintenance

The threat of winter weather is three-pronged: freezing temperatures can quickly sap your body's strength, poor visibility can increase the risk of accidents, and a lack of traction can send you into a snowbank. Driving in the snow requires more skill than cruising in the summer months. With the tips below, you can turn a stressful winter drive into a safer, more confident one.

Improving your experience behind the wheel when it's icy and snowy out often begins before you sit down in the driver's seat. Proper car maintenance keeps you safe on the road year-round, but can be especially critical before you head out into the snow.

Tip 1: Check and Top Off Your Fluids

Check and top off your car's fluids, from the power steering and windshield washer fluid to the engine oil and coolant. If you're nearing the oil change interval, schedule an appointment or gather the materials to do one yourself.

Tip 2: Test Your Battery

Test the battery to ensure it has a strong charge. Colder temperatures can easily drain car batteries, so catch a weak one before it leaves you stranded.

Tip 3: Inspect Your Tires

Inspect the tread and verify the pressure of your tires, including the spare tire (if applicable).

Tip 4: Stock Your Emergency Kit

Create or take stock of your emergency kit. This kit should include non-perishable food (such as nuts or granola bars), water, a flashlight, a blanket, extra clothing, a first aid kit, an ice scraper, a small snow shovel, basic tools, and anything else you might need in an emergency.

These tips apply to your vehicle regardless of the conditions outside. It's also much easier and more comfortable to perform a few maintenance checks in your garage's heat than in blustering winds.

Snow Tires and Preparing for the Road Ahead

It's a good idea to let someone know where you're going before you head out into wintry conditions. Emergency response efforts can better pinpoint your location if anything happens to you.

Tip 5: Invest in Winter Tires

Invest in the proper winter tires rated for your local climate. Avoid driving with summer tires or tires with an unsafe tread depth (less than 2/32 of an inch).

Tip 6: Plan Your Route

Plan your route beforehand, keeping to major roads. Check traffic and local weather reports a few hours before you set out for updated road closures and conditions.

Tip 7: Keep Your Tank Full

Keep at least half a tank of gas in your vehicle at all times. You never know when your trip may take you longer or further. Having a full tank of gas can help you avoid being stranded.

Tip 8: Charge Your Phone

Charge your cell phone or bring a phone charger with you. A fully charged phone can help you stay in touch in case you get lost.

Tip 9: Wear Proper Footwear

Wear warm and comfortable footwear appropriate for the season. Dry footwear keeps your foot from sliding off the gas or brake pedal and protects your feet if you have to seek out help on foot.

Tip 10: Clear Snow from Your Vehicle

Idle your vehicle outside for a minute before you embark on your journey. While your car is heating up, clear all the snow atop it to improve your visibility and prevent flying snow from decreasing visibility for drivers behind you.

Tip 11: Don't Skip the Snow Removal

Even if you're running late, take the extra 10 minutes to clear off your car before you leave the parking lot. The risk of skipping this step will seem small compared to the cost of causing or getting into a car accident.

How Should You Drive on Snow and Ice?

Getting behind the wheel and navigating snow-covered roads can be challenging. Remember, four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive will only get you so far. Keep the following in mind as you traverse city streets and highways.

Tip 12: Stay Home If You Can

If you don't have to be out on the road, stay home or have your food or groceries delivered instead.

Tip 13: Drive Slowly and Smoothly

Complete driving actions slowly and smoothly, avoiding sudden movements. Allow yourself extra time to complete a turn, slow down for a red light, and pass other drivers with plenty of space to spare.

Tip 14: Skip the Cruise Control

Avoid speeding and using cruise control.

Tip 15: Keep Your Windshield Clear

If ice builds up on your windshield, pull over and clear it before continuing to maintain optimal visibility.

Tip 16: Turn On Your Lights

Turn your headlights and fog lights on, even if it's light out.

Tip 17: Don't Spin Your Tires

Avoid the impulse to mash the gas if you get stuck in the snow. Instead, find something to give your tires traction (such as dirt, gravel, or your floor mats) or call for help.

Tip 18: Steer Into the Slide

If you start to slide, turn the steering wheel into the slide, but don't take your hands off the steering wheel. Avoid braking and losing control as you steer gently to return the car to your intended path and regain traction.

Tip 19: Take a Winter Driving Course

If driving in the snow feels intimidating, let the experts guide you. Find and sign up for driving classes near you that focus on driving in the snow. Apply those techniques the next time you're on the road in snowy conditions.

How Do You Share the Road in Winter Weather?

Many drivers go into autopilot mode during the warmer months, but the addition of weather hazards should put you on high alert.

Tip 20: Watch for Bridges and Overpasses

Exercise caution while traversing bridges or overpasses, as they tend to freeze before the surrounding roads do.

Tip 21: Increase Your Following Distance

Add extra car lengths of following distance between yourself and the car in front of you. Increase this stopping distance as conditions worsen to give yourself enough distance to react, brake for potential hazards, or take evasive action as necessary. Avoid passing cars unless it's absolutely necessary.

Tip 22: Don't Pass Plows

Don't pass plows. Instead, give them enough distance to do their jobs and provide a safer roadway for you.

Tip 23: Pull Over Safely

If you have to pull over, safely drive as far as you can into the shoulder and off the road. Turn your headlights off and your hazards on. Avoid driving in the tracks of other cars, as packed snow can quickly turn to ice faster than fresh snow.

Tip 24: Let Impatient Drivers Pass

You can't control other drivers who may feel more confident driving in snowy conditions. When it's safe, pull over and let them pass. It's more important to drive safely than to keep up with other vehicles in icy conditions. If you need to climb a hill, leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you as you maintain speed up the incline, especially if your car is rear-wheel drive.

Drive Confidently This Winter

Winter driving takes extra preparation and focus, but you can handle it. With the tips listed above, you can adjust your driving habits to ensure safer trips in snowy conditions. The skills you gain by driving on snow-packed and icy roads make you a better driver and keep everyone on the road safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive in the snow?

You can drive safely in the snow with the right preparation. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, avoid sudden steering or braking, and make sure your vehicle has proper winter tires and a charged battery.

What should you do if your car starts sliding on ice?

Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the slide and avoid hitting the brakes. Steer gently to guide your car back to your intended path and regain traction.

What should be in a winter emergency car kit?

Your kit should include non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a blanket, extra clothing, a first aid kit, an ice scraper, a small snow shovel, and basic tools. Keep it stocked and in your vehicle before winter weather arrives.

If winter weather does lead to a collision, Crash Champions is here to help. Find your nearest location to schedule your free estimate.

The information in this article is provided for educational purposes and may not reflect every situation. While we strive for accuracy, this content is general guidance, not a substitute for visiting your local collision repair provider. For questions about your specific vehicle or repair needs, contact your local Crash Champions team.