Winter Driving Tips

Winter Driving Tips

The weather outside is frightful and our commutes are rarely graceful during the increased weather hazards. By following a few simple tips, you can reduce your likelihood for accidents exponentially.

1. Slow your speed.

The first tip given in driver’s education is the best tip. At reduced speeds, your car is less likely to lose traction with the road surface due to ice. At reduced speeds, you will have more time to react to any potential obstacles or emergencies that come your way. At reduced speeds, you will not need as much time to bring your car to a stop. Slow your speed to increase your safety in wintery conditions.

2. Remove snow.

Before you begin your journey, be sure to clear off snow from your vehicle. Rather than simply carving out a small eyehole on your windshield, take a few extra minutes to remove all the snow. As you drive, snow and ice will blow and melt on your car. This can, at times, cause unexpected obstructions to your visibility. While—most of the time—these obstructions are no more than annoyances, it can only take one distraction to cause an accident. Play it safe and thoroughly clean your car.

3. Plan your route.

When dealing with less than ideal road conditions, your route matters more than ever. Making turns against traffic is significantly more difficult in heavy snow and reduced visibility. Often, these problems can be obviated by a simple redirection. But rather than trying to plan your route on the fly (and thus incurring an additional distraction while driving), familiarize yourself with the route and your plan before getting into the vehicle. Not only will you save time and gas while driving, but you can also reduce your likelihood for an accident.

These tips are not difficult, but prioritizing safety can make a world of difference in an accident—or an ensuing lawsuit.