How to Drive Safely on Snowy and Icy Roads?
4 Answers
When driving on snowy and icy roads, pay attention to the following: 1. Maintain sufficient distance between vehicles, generally at least double the distance compared to non-snowy and icy roads; 2. Keep a steady speed, avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration; 3. Avoid overtaking unless absolutely confident; 4. Reduce speed to a minimum before entering a curve, steer slowly and gently, take wide turns, and avoid sharp turns; 5. Increase speed slightly before ascending a slope to gain momentum, maintain a steady speed on the slope without accelerating until reaching the top; 6. Reduce speed to the minimum before descending a slope, maintain a steady speed without braking, and never shift to neutral gear; 7. Use snow chains when snow accumulation exceeds 10 cm in depth, and install them on the drive wheels.
I have extensive experience driving on icy and snowy roads. The key to safety is driving slower, ideally reducing your speed by half to allow more reaction time. Remember to increase your following distance to at least twice the normal amount to avoid rear-end collisions. Handle the steering, acceleration, and braking gently—avoid sudden throttle inputs or sharp turns, as these can cause wheels to skid and lose control. Tires are crucial: switch to winter tires or use snow chains for better grip with deeper treads; if unavailable, at least ensure proper tire pressure. I also make it a habit to check the weather forecast before heading out to avoid driving during heavy snow or freezing rain. Keep emergency supplies in the car, like a snow shovel, flashlight, and warm clothing, in case you get stuck. At night, keep headlights bright and free of snow or fog. Most importantly, stay focused on the road—don’t panic if something unexpected happens; maintain steady control and pull over safely. Practice winter driving a few times to build confidence. Safe driving protects both you and others.
As a driver who often carries family members, I am particularly cautious when driving on icy and snowy roads. The top priority is to slow down, keeping the speed below 30 km/h in urban areas and no more than 60 km/h on highways. Maintain a greater following distance, ensuring at least a 10-second gap to allow room for evasive action if the vehicle ahead skids. Gentle operation is key—turn the steering wheel slowly, and apply the brakes and accelerator lightly to avoid sudden movements that could cause skidding. Choose dedicated snow tires with deeper treads for better grip, and check tire pressure before heading out to ensure it's not too low. I also emphasize warming up the vehicle; in winter, let the engine run for a few minutes, and use antifreeze windshield washer fluid to keep the windshield clear. Keep an emergency kit, flashlight, and food in the car. If stuck, pull over to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and seek help. Stay calm, avoid rushing, and follow navigation prompts to bypass icy sections. Practice winter driving skills regularly—getting home safely is what matters most.
Having driven several times on snowy and icy roads, I believe the core of safety lies in controlling speed and distance. Start slowly, keep the speed under 40 km/h, and double the following distance; avoid slamming on the brakes—gentle taps work better. Tires are the most crucial—winter tires are a must for stronger grip and less slipping; if you haven't changed them, check that the wear doesn't exceed the limit. Slow down early before turning, and steer steadily without rushing. Keep your headlights on to improve visibility. Carry a shovel and an insulated bag in the car for emergencies. Stay relaxed—avoid tension and mistakes to stay safe.
