Written byRoad safety concerns are always present when you are driving in snowy conditions. However, it is possible to drive safely in snow. But you must have the right precautions and preparation. Moreover, you must adopt a cautious approach and have the proper equipment.
Apart from that, you must be aware of the challenges in the snow. These include reduced visibility and slippery surfaces.
If you want to drive safely, you must be aware of vehicle capabilities and road conditions. Apart from that, you must install proper tires and maintain a safe distance. Moreover, you have to adjust your speed to make a difference. In fact, by taking the right steps, you will get the confidence to drive on snowy roads.
In most cases, it is easy to underestimate the risks of winter driving. You might be commuting to work or embarking on a longer journey. In both cases, you must be aware of snow-driving safety protocols. This way, you will be able to prevent accidents and ensure a safer experience.
Must Check: Is Rear Wheel Drive Good In Snow Or Winter?
What Are the Risks of Driving in the Snow? – A Basic Overview
If you drive in snowy conditions, you will come across major challenges and risks. Therefore, you must be aware of them. Apart from that, major factors include the science behind snow accumulation on roads. Also, you must know how frequent snow-related accidents are.
1. The Science of Snow and Its Effect on Roads
Basically, snow forms through various atmospheric processes. Thereby, it generates flakes that accumulate and impact road surface conditions. In fact, when snow blankets a road, it reduces traction. Hence, vehicles find it harder to grip the surface. Also, the primary factor influencing driving safety is the density and moisture content of the snow.
Wet, heavy snow creates slushy conditions. Meanwhile, lighter, powdery snow leads to drifting and poor visibility. Apart from that, black ice (a thin layer of ice beneath the snow) poses significant dangers.
In addition to that, drivers mostly underestimate stopping distances. Actually, it takes up to 10 times longer to stop on snow-covered roads compared to dry pavement.
2. Data on Snow-Related Vehicle Accidents
Multiple statistical studies show the risks of snowy driving conditions. In the United States, almost 1,300 deaths and 116,800 injuries happen annually due to winter weather (NHTSA).
Apart from that, more than 70% of winter accidents happen on icy or snowy roads. Interestingly, most of them take place in rural areas.
Hence, legal assistance with car accidents is important if you want to know the complexities of liability. Also, you will know how to make insurance claims after you face an accident.
Apart from that, other factors include failure to adjust driving speed and poor vehicle maintenance. These show why proactive measures are necessary during winter weather.
What Precautions Must You Take for Snow Driving? – Essential Steps
If you take the right steps before driving in snowy conditions, you will increase your chances of safety. The following are the steps you must take in this regard:
1. Make Your Vehicle Ready for Snowy Weather
To prepare your vehicle, you must perform the following checks:
- Firstly, make sure to install winter-grade tires. Also, ensure there is enough tread depth to maintain traction. Moreover, a quick inspection will reveal whether they are suitable for icy conditions.
- Then, maintain fluid levels in your vehicle. In general, it includes antifreeze and windshield washer fluid. These are employable in freezing temperatures.
- Ensure that wipers are functioning correctly to improve visibility during snowstorms. Apart from that, perform regular maintenance checks. In this case, focus on the brakes and battery life.
- Lastly, make sure a full tank of gas is available. Otherwise, you might end up being stranded. Also, it provides extra weight for better traction.
2. Take Necessary Safety Gear and Supplies
If you want to prepare for winter driving, ensure that you have proper safety gear and supplies. Primarily, an emergency kit must have the following things:
- a flashlight
- extra blankets
- non-perishable food items.
Also, first aid kits are essential as they ensure the meeting of basic medical needs. Apart from that, have a shovel with you to free up the vehicle in case it gets stuck.
Moreover, to increase visibility during roadside emergencies, employ flares or reflective triangles. In addition to that, a bag of sand or cat litter will provide traction in slippery situations.
Lastly, keep a charged phone and portable charger. This way, you will be able to call for help when necessary. These preparations will make a difference in ensuring safety during snow driving.
Safe Snow-Driving Techniques You Must Follow
The following are some of the major driving techniques you must follow to ensure safety:
1. For Slippery Surfaces
In general, braking on snow is quite different from braking in dry conditions. Hence, if you want to maintain control, you must brake gently. This will leave you ample space between vehicles.
- Increase following distance: Always maintain a distance of at least five to six seconds. This will provide enough time to react.
- Avoid sudden movements: With quick steering or aggressive braking, you will end up losing control.
As a driver, you must utilize low gears when going downhill. Also, it helps maintain speed without relying solely on brakes. This will lock up the vehicle and cause skidding. Moreover, you must also have an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Hence, you will be able to apply firm pressure while steering.
2. For Heavy Snow and Poor Visibility
In heavy snow, visibility becomes a major concern. Also, you must have low-beam headlights to improve visibility. This is because high beams reflect off falling snow. Moreover, they might cause a blinding effect.
- Slow down: First, you must try to reduce speed. It is also important to adjust your speed to match the road conditions.
- Utilize windshield wipers: If you keep windshield wipers in good condition, you will have clear visibility. Hence, have defrosters to prevent frost buildup.
Meanwhile, if roads become impassable, you must look for alternate routes. Moreover, you must avoid particular areas altogether. Also, have a GPS with real-time traffic updates. This will help you navigate around blocked roads or unexpected conditions.
What to Do After a Snow-Related Car Accident? – Follow These Steps
Somehow, if you face a snow-related car accident, try to be calm. The following are the steps you must take:
- First, check whether you or anyone else in the vehicle is injured. In case of injury, call emergency services immediately.
- Then, move to a safe location if possible. Moreover, turn on hazard lights. Then, move vehicles out of traffic for safety.
- Take photos of the accident. For instance, capture vehicle positions and road conditions. Basically, this evidence will be valuable later.
- Ensure that you exchange information with the other driver. In this case, collect names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Always inform the police. This is because an official report is important for insurance claims.
- After that, notify your insurance company. In fact, report the accident as soon as possible. Also, provide them with accurate and complete information.
- Reach out to a lawyer. This way, you will be able to make potential claims. Moreover, you will know more about your rights regarding compensation.
- Ensure that you document all expenses and communications related to the accident. This includes medical bills, repairs, and lost wages.
- Do not admit fault. Always take time to assess the situation fully. This is because the statements you make will affect your liability. Rather, let your lawyer do all the talking.
With proper steps, you will be able to drive safely in the snow. However, get more information about local laws regarding accidents in snowy conditions. This way, you will be able to ensure compliance. Moreover, follow all the legal procedures properly.
