Should You Use the Handbrake When Driving in Snowy Weather?

[LeIan]

Do not use the handbrake when driving in snowy weather. Introduction to Braking: Braking, also known as deceleration, refers to the action of stopping or reducing the speed of moving locomotives, vehicles, and other transportation tools or machinery. The general principle of braking is to fix a wheel or disc on the high-speed shaft of the machine and install corresponding brake shoes, bands, or discs on the machine base to generate braking torque under external force. The Purpose of Braking: To decelerate, which can mean reducing speed or bringing the vehicle to a complete stop. Try to use the brakes as little as possible while driving; braking is only a method adopted for comfort or in emergency situations.

[Shelly]

Should You Use the Handbrake When Driving in Snow? I've Got This Topic Covered. As someone who's been in car maintenance for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous cases firsthand. Snowy roads are already slippery, and pulling the handbrake can easily lock the rear wheels, causing the car to skid or spin out, potentially leading to a collision with guardrails. This is no joke, especially for novice drivers who are most prone to making this mistake. My advice is to avoid using the handbrake when parking in snow. Instead, use the foot brake to come to a gradual stop, then shift into a gear like reverse or first to prevent the car from moving. When driving in snow, extra precautions are necessary—switch to winter tires, drive slowly, maintain a safe following distance, and warm up the car longer to prevent brake freezing. Safety should always come first; if an accident happens, regret won't help.

[DelLandon]

I remember when I just got my driver's license, my instructor repeatedly reminded me not to use the handbrake in snowy conditions. He said that braking on snow can easily lock the tires, causing the car to lose control and slide like skating. I once witnessed a friend's car accident due to improper handbrake use, which later cost thousands in repairs. Since then, I've learned my lesson when driving in snow: find a flat spot to park, use the foot brake to stop gently, and shift into a lower gear to ensure the car stays put. Also, remember to clear snow from the roof to prevent it from falling and obstructing your view while driving, and keep the headlights on for better visibility. These steps are simple and reliable, easy for beginners to follow, and save a lot of trouble. A calm driving mindset is also crucial—take it slow and steady to minimize risks.

[VanDavid]

I've been driving for twenty years in the northern regions where heavy snow is common in winter, and dealing with the handbrake issue is quite simple. When parking, don't pull the handbrake immediately because the snowy ground can cause skidding, which may damage the tires or brake pads. Instead, use the foot brake to stop the car steadily, then simply shift into gear to secure the vehicle—it's both worry-free and safe. Also, drive slowly on the road and maintain a longer following distance to avoid sudden braking. Choosing a flat area to park is ideal; if there's a slight slope, use rocks to block the wheels for extra security. Regular car maintenance shouldn't be overlooked either, such as checking tire pressure to prevent blowouts and warming up the engine to keep the braking system from freezing. Adopting these small habits makes driving in snowy conditions much easier.