Is the braking distance longer or shorter in snowy conditions?
2 Answers
Snowy conditions result in longer braking distances. The specific reasons for longer braking distances in snowy conditions are as follows: 1. Coefficient of adhesion: The coefficient of adhesion on icy and snowy roads decreases, meaning the friction coefficient is reduced. Consequently, when braking, the ground braking force the wheels receive—essentially the frictional resistance from the ground—decreases, leading to a reduced deceleration during braking and naturally extending the braking distance. 2. Other factors: A vehicle's braking distance is not only related to its own braking system, tire condition, and speed but also significantly influenced by road conditions and the adhesion conditions between the tires and the road surface. In rainy or snowy weather, the adhesion conditions of the wheels deteriorate, making it essential to reduce driving speed.
Speaking of braking in snowy conditions, I have deep personal experience every time I drive back to my hometown in Northeast China. On snow-covered roads, the braking distance significantly increases, often extending to two or three times longer than usual. I remember last winter when I tried to brake at 40km/h, my car slid over twenty meters before coming to a complete stop. The principle is that snow reduces tire traction, with the friction coefficient between rubber and ice being only one-third of that on dry pavement. Additionally, it's important to note that ice formed by compacted snow is even more slippery, making it easier to trigger ABS activation during braking. My advice is to drive slower in snowy conditions, anticipate road situations in advance, and maintain a distance of five to ten times the normal gap from the vehicle ahead. Switching to winter tires does help, but you should still be mentally prepared for longer stopping distances.
