10 life hacks for safe winter driving

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Driving in winter is quite different from driving at other times of the year. Poor weather conditions and reduced daylight hours make driving a car quite dangerous. Add here the problems with timely snow removal and the use of reagents and we get a high probability of an accident. To minimize risks and feel confident behind the wheel in all weather conditions, follow some simple tips.

1. Prepare your car for winter conditions

Ideally, you should have a full inspection of the car at a car service. If you prepare the car yourself, then check it according to the following checklist:

• tires are replaced with winter ones;
• low beam, running lights, fog lights are working properly;
• frost-resistant liquid is poured into the washer reservoir;
• the battery is fully charged;
• the braking system works well;
• antifreeze and oil changed (or topped up to the correct level).

2. Completely clear the vehicle of snow before driving

Snow on the body can roll off the roof, blocking your view. In addition, the dimensions of a vehicle covered in snow are difficult to determine.

3. Plan your trip in advance

In the morning, it's a good idea to listen to the weather forecast or browse social networks to assess the situation. This is especially important when traveling to another city. Don't forget to charge your mobile in case of emergencies.

4. Make only deliberate maneuvers on a slippery road

Experienced drivers know that ABS increases stopping distance when the road is icy. Therefore, do not allow this system to work: brake in advance and as smoothly as possible. When descending, use engine braking, shift gears sequentially. When lifting, select a gear to avoid shifting, as this can cause the wheels to slip. It is better to refrain from overtaking on difficult sections (track, pronounced icing of the road, and so on).

5. Highlight the dimensions of your car

For safe driving in the dark, especially in conditions of limited visibility, be sure to use low beam headlights in combination with fog lights.

6. Remember about pedestrians

When crossing the road, people may slip and fall. Consider this when approaching pedestrian crossings, as well as near hospitals, schools, kindergartens. Alas, it is often difficult to predict the actions of a pedestrian, so be vigilant.

7. If possible, do not park your car on the road

This reduces throughput and interferes with snow plowing equipment. Also, with poor visibility, it can cause an accident.

8. Check for a strong rope, first aid kit and shovel

Situations can be different, but as folk wisdom says, forewarned is forearmed. A rope and a shovel will help you get out of the snow trap, and the first aid kit will come in handy in case you feel unwell on the way or, pah-pah, in case of an accident.

9. Improve your driving level

Not a single written manual will teach you how to quickly and competently cope with a skid, make maneuvers correctly, and feel confident on a winter road. Sign up for special courses: in addition to the undeniable benefits, you will receive vivid emotions and pleasure!

10. Concentrate maximum attention on the road

Often we are not responsible for an emergency, but getting into it is still not very pleasant. Observing the speed limit, carefully monitoring other road users, you will reduce the risk of force majeure to a minimum.

In conclusion, I would like to say that these tips are suitable for both novice drivers and experienced ones - as a reminder. My dad, an experienced motorist, shared them with me. Be armed with knowledge, be attentive on the road and have a pleasant winter!