If you drive a car during any season, you’ll be experiencing some challenges, but more so during winter. Snow can make the steering and braking functions difficult. Driving in winter weather conditions can be very dangerous. However, by following some simple directions and precautions, you can prevent severe accidents and personal injuries.

Ice and snow are the most common challenges on the roads in the winter season. It’s the same when driving during the rainy season —the roads are slippery and hazardous. The best way to keep safe when there’s a blizzard or raining hard is to stay home. However, if you must travel on icy, slippery roads, here are some safety tips you may follow:

1. Check Your Vehicle

A reliable car is required if you want to keep safe on the road during winter (you can view vehicles here to get an idea). If you already have a car, always keep your vehicle in good operating condition to prevent any mishap or accident while driving.

Here’s what you can do to make sure your vehicle is road-worthy during the winter season:

• You should always check your tires for proper tread depth and condition. Proper tread depth indicates that your tires are performing well and are capable of withstanding snow and ice patches.
• Make sure that your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are in good condition as they’re important for ensuring safety while driving. If you encounter any problems with these lights, take it into your authorized auto mechanic immediately.
• You should install anti-lock brakes (ABS) and other relevant safety features. It’s also advisable to invest in airbags and other personal safety devices. These safety features come in handy in the winter when you need to make a sudden stop or turn due to low visibility or poor road condition.

2. Be Prepared

If you’re concerned about being stuck in the middle of nowhere during winter weather, take extra time to prepare. Here are some things that you should do to prepare for winter driving:

• Plan your route ahead of time to ensure that you’ll not get stuck anywhere. Make sure to have alternative ways in case the road isn’t passable.
• Keep your fuel tank filled or at least half-full. Traffic can be terrible during extreme weather conditions, so you don’t want to run out of gas while plying the snow-covered roads.
• It’s also essential to wear appropriate clothing. In extreme weather conditions, you should wear a jacket or coat to provide additional warmth.
• If you’re traveling with kids, it’s best to bring thermal blankets to keep them warm, just in case the car’s heater malfunctions. Keep some snacks and drinks stored in a bag in your vehicle to keep hungry tummies filled if you’re stuck in traffic.
• Keep a well-stocked emergency road kit in your car during the winter months. You can include several items in the kit, like a blanket, jacket, wool socks, gloves, snowshoes, boots, jumper cables, and rain gear.

3. Observe Safety Driving Measures

If you can’t avoid driving during winter, make sure you practice defensive driving to keep yourself and passengers safe the entire time.

• When you’re driving on slippery roads during winter, you should pay extra attention. It’s best if you always stay alert. Never allow any unnecessary movements. Stay centered, and do not deviate from your route. Always avoid abrupt movements.
• You must avoid using your cellphone or other mobile electronics while driving. These may increase the chance of you losing control or hitting something.
• If possible, use cruise control while driving in bad weather conditions. When you apply the brakes, the engine is forced to slow down. It helps to avoid accidents caused by sudden movements. However, if your vehicle requires further attention, you can pull over the side road and use the parking brake.
• Don’t forget to wear your seatbelt—it’s an essential safety precaution that could save your life.

Takeaway

There are many things that you can do to keep yourself and your passengers safe when driving in winter. To avoid road accidents, always keep your car in excellent shape, be prepared for any emergencies, and make sure you’re in good condition to drive. You can always choose to stay indoors when the weather is terrible. But, if you can’t avoid driving during these times, it’s best to keep safety on top of your list.