Can You Drive in Heavy Snow?
3 Answers
You can drive in heavy snow, but it is not recommended. Precautions for driving in heavy snow: Reduce speed, increase the distance from the vehicle ahead, avoid sudden braking and sharp turns, control speed with the accelerator, and avoid coasting in neutral. Use low gear when passing through crowded or congested areas. Anti-skid measures for driving in heavy snow: Maintain low speed. If there is a hard surface or compacted snow beneath 8 to 9 inches of loose snow, driving is possible, as the firm surface beneath the loose snow provides traction. Generally, driving in snow should be slow and steady, with a focus on maintaining low speed. When accelerating, if the wheels spin, gently ease off the accelerator and then apply it lightly to move forward. In very deep but compact snow, lighter vehicles can float on the surface after reducing tire pressure. Do not lower tire pressure on packed snow. In deep, loose snow or deep, slushy snow, use all available means, such as reducing tire pressure, installing snow chains, or using a winch. Proper use of brakes on slippery surfaces is essential. Brake while keeping the vehicle moving straight; braking in a curve can cause skidding. For vehicles without ABS, emergency braking requires pumping the brakes—press the brake pedal firmly, release just before the wheels lock, then press firmly and quickly again, repeating as needed. For vehicles with ABS, do not pump the brakes; simply press the pedal firmly and steadily, and the system's computer will handle the braking process.
Whether you can drive in heavy snow depends on the situation. I've seen many drivers panic as soon as it snows. The key factors are vehicle equipment and personal skills—snow tires or anti-slip chains are a must, otherwise, wheel slippage is like stepping on a banana peel. Before driving, clear the snow from the front and rear windows and the roof, and wipe the rearview mirrors clean, otherwise, the blurred vision is like driving with your eyes closed. Accelerate and brake as gently as stepping on eggs; a sudden press will make the car drift immediately. Don't follow too closely when going uphill—if the car in front slides back, there's no chance to dodge. It's best to have an emergency kit in the car: blankets, dry food, and a power bank, in case you get stuck on the highway, these items can sustain you until help arrives. Novice drivers are advised to skip driving altogether—taking a taxi or public transport is more reliable.
Honestly, driving in snowy conditions really tests your skills. When I used to drive long distances, I came up with a few golden rules. The first is controlling your speed—don’t exceed 40 km/h on city roads, and keep it under 80 km/h on highways, depending on the weather. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial; increase your following distance from the usual 3 seconds to at least 6 seconds in snow. Slow down at least 200 meters before turning, as sharp steering can cause skidding. Use the right lights: low beams plus front and rear fog lights, and avoid high beams—the snow glare can be blinding. Always check the weather app before heading out, and cancel your trip if there’s a red alert. Don’t underestimate a forecast of 'moderate snow'—mountainous areas and bridges often have twice the predicted snow accumulation. If you get caught in a blizzard, find a rest area or gas station immediately; pushing through increases the risk of accidents.
