Is it better to drive while it's snowing or after the snow stops?
3 Answers
It is better to drive after the snow stops. Snow covering the tracks poses a significant challenge to driving safety and can also affect the overhead contact lines. Precautions for driving in snowy weather: Due to the cold winter weather, temperatures are extremely low. If you are driving a manual transmission vehicle, it is recommended to depress the clutch when starting the car, as this makes it easier to start. Additionally, during winter driving, it is best to let the engine run for a while after starting before driving to avoid the inconvenience of the engine stalling midway. Note: Low temperatures can cause fluids to thicken, and the handbrake can easily freeze. Therefore, always start the car and move it back and forth for a while before setting off to restore the vehicle's condition. Avoid emergency braking: While driving, always remember not to accelerate or brake suddenly. On snow-covered roads, the braking distance can be as long as 50 meters, making accidents more likely. Therefore, drive smoothly, avoid frequent lane changes, and refrain from overtaking. Minimize the number of braking actions, especially avoiding emergency braking. Additionally, when approaching turns, slopes, forks, or bridges covered in snow and ice, never attempt to pass blindly. Beginners should avoid driving on snowy roads if possible. When passing overpasses, consider taking the service road instead to avoid the danger of stalling on a slope and the car sliding backward.
As someone who frequently drives in snowy conditions, I firmly believe it's wiser to wait until the snow stops before hitting the road. During snowfall, visibility is severely limited—falling snowflakes make it hard to see anything, and roads become icy and slippery. Losing tire traction could easily lead to an accident. I still remember my last snowy drive when I nearly slid into a ditch—it was terrifying. After the snow stops, road crews clear the snow, significantly improving conditions and making driving much more stable. If you absolutely must drive during snowfall, remember to equip winter tires, maintain low speeds, and avoid sudden braking. But none of these measures are as safe as simply waiting. Before winter arrives, I also remind everyone to check their vehicle's lights and braking systems—after all, prevention is better than cure.
From a family perspective, I must say driving after the snow stops is much more reassuring. Roads during snowfall are as slippery as ice rinks, and driving with kids always keeps me on edge - what if something happens? After the snow stops and the ice is cleared, visibility improves and accident risks drop significantly. In our area, schools close during blizzards, so I take the opportunity to postpone shopping trips. If you must drive in snow, equip snow chains and increase following distance. Making a habit of checking weather forecasts, planning trips in advance, and minimizing unnecessary outings is key.
