Winter driving can be dangerous, especially in the snowier parts of the country. According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 1,300 people are killed, and over 116,800 are injured, in vehicle crashes due to snowy, slushy or icy pavement every year.
When it comes to driving in severe weather, your best move is simply to avoid it. But, if you have to, following these winter driving tips can help keep you safer on the road.
In addition, be sure to:
- Review your car insurance coverage. If you do need to file a claim, someone from your insurance company will guide you through the process. However, you’ll feel better if you already have an idea of what type of damage may or may not be covered.
- Remove your shovel, scraper, and other snow-removal supplies from your trunk. You won’t be able to get to them if there’s a foot of snow on top of your car.
- Storing some extra floor mats or old towels in your car can help you drive out of a spot you’re snowed into. Just place them on the snow beneath your tires for added traction. A stash of ice melt can help too.
- Be prepared in case you get stuck in a storm. Make sure to have your car stocked with an emergency kit, including first aid, snacks and items to keep you warm, should you ever need them.
- Ready.gov provides guidelines for what to do if you get trapped in your car during a winter storm – e.g. turn on the engine and heater for ten minutes each hour to stay warm, and remain in your vehicle unless you know there’s a building very close to you – as well as other severe weather tips.
Not sure where to start? Download our Emergency Evacuation Checklist here.
- Make sure your tires are ready. Investing in snow tires can be a life-saving decision, especially for those who experience stormy winters.
- Ensure there are no road closures, local or state travel restrictions, or traffic-snarling accidents along your route.
- Park your car in a safe spot when possible after arriving at your destination. For example, not underneath a dead tree or one full of snowy limbs.
What other winter driving safety tips did we miss? Do you have your own winter driving story or lessons learned? Share in the comments!
If I’m driving while it’s snowing, and my car is covered with a light coating of snow, several alarms will go off. Of course, the car doesn’t know it’s snowing and is trying to warn me of dangerous conditions, which actually do not exist. Once the snow melts off my car, the alarms are cleared.
Hi and God bless you,
I pray you all are well. Thank you for this information. it is very helpful.
Stay well.
Pastor Gerald Waldron
A great reminder
Good instructions to remember!
Thank you for the reminder, for Texas drivers let every driver know on the back of their your driver license there is a 1-800 number to call for roadside assistance for freeway only its free
Article is terrific. Is very important to perform routine maintenance on your vehicle to prevent roadside safety issues.
Good to review since we are entering the season when everyone has to remember the safety tips
Yes it was helpful. T yr here were a few things mentioned that I hadn’t thought about. I’m sure I’m not the only one. Thank you for sharing that. Thank you for sharing that valuable information.
100 pounds of weight in the trunk or bed of the truck will give added traction unless you have front wheel drive. Also a blanket and a book of matches or a lighter.
Yes, very helpful. It is always worth being reminded of any safety facts!!
We live on a hill. When the road is snowy or icy we watch as some people get stuck, unable to get up the hill. Usually they make the mistake of gunning the engine, which only makes the problem worse. The key is to do two things: straighten the wheels (don’t try to get going in a turn), and then GRADUALLY accelerate. If this doesn’t work after a few tries, back down the hill slowly and find another route.
This little clip had a lot of information that we can learn . Thank you.
Live in Georgia now, use to live in New Jersey. Still do seasonal to do things.
Nice reminder.
I had not thought of taking tools out of the trunk and putting them in the car, something new I learned, thank you.
Don’t forget to check your windshield wiper fluid level and the condition of your wiper blades. Clean your headlight lenses. Keep a blanket in y car.