Afraid To Drive In Snowy or Icy Conditions? These Tips Will Help

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Winter weather conditions can make driving more treacherous than normal. Although it’s true that it can be scary to drive your car as snow is falling or on icy roads, it’s entirely possible to stay safe while driving in wintry conditions.

Some of the basic tips for driving safely in winter weather are just that: basic. They include:

  • Drive more slowly than usual
  • Press down more lightly on the gas and brake pedals
  • Give cars in front of you far more stopping distance than usual
  • Keep your tire pressure at the appropriate level
  • Don’t use cruise control if roads are in any way slippery

In addition to following these rules, it’s important to limit the number of times you have to fully stop your car. According to AAA, “There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling.” What this means in icy weather is that your wheels spinning out — and you losing control of your car — is more likely when you’re starting it from a full stop. In general, AAA says, “Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will just make your wheels spin.”

If you do lose control of your car, AAA has sound advice to follow. According to AAA, the worst thing you can do if your car begins to skid is to frantically try to brake or turn your steering wheel. Instructions on how you can regain control during a skid differ depending on whether your car is oversteering or not turning at all. AAA has thorough instructions on how to handle either situation.

What winter driving tips do you have for us? Let us know in the comments!

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