What are some tips for driving in snowy conditions?
2 Answers
Tips for driving in snowy conditions: Drive slowly: The coefficient of adhesion on icy and snowy roads is very low, making it easier for wheels to skid and increasing driving hazards. Therefore, maintain a lower speed to ensure safety. Keep your speed steady and avoid sudden acceleration. When accelerating or decelerating, press or release the throttle gently to prevent the drive wheels from skidding due to sudden changes in speed. Maintain a safe distance: Driving on snowy roads increases the risk of rear-end collisions, so it's essential to increase the following distance and maintain an appropriate gap from the vehicle ahead. Snow reduces ground resistance to only about 1/4 of that on dry asphalt roads, significantly extending the non-safe braking zone. If you follow too closely, it will be difficult to stop within a short distance, making rear-end collisions more likely in emergencies. Slow down before turning: When turning, first reduce your speed, slightly increase the turning radius, and steer the wheel slowly. Hold the steering wheel with both hands and operate it smoothly and gently to avoid skidding. Never brake while turning, as inertia may cause the car to lose control. Start in a higher gear and press the throttle lightly: If the wheels skid when starting, shift into a gear higher than usual and release the clutch more slowly than normal. Adjust the driving force using the half-clutch technique. Apply less throttle than usual—just enough to keep the engine running. Once the wheels start moving, immediately shift to a lower gear and proceed normally. For automatic transmission vehicles, switch to the snow mode or winter driving setting if available. Smooth movements: After snowfall, thin ice may form on the road, making it easy for the drive wheels to skid or spin. In such conditions, the key to safe driving is "smooth movements." Avoid excessive throttle or steering inputs, brake gently, and do not release the clutch too quickly.
Every time I drive in the snow, I remind myself: never stomp on the accelerator when starting, or the wheels will just spin without moving. It's best to start in second gear to reduce slipping, and steer more gently than usual when turning. Brake earlier and lightly, maintaining at least double the usual following distance, because braking distance doubles in snowy conditions. When you see the brake lights of the car ahead, start lightly braking too, or the risk of rear-ending increases significantly. Approach intersections with extra caution and slow down well in advance—compacted snow on the road is like an ice rink. Remember to regularly wipe snow and fog off the rearview mirrors, and always turn on the rear window defroster. If possible, switching to winter tires is highly recommended—they provide noticeably better traction, especially useful when sliding on small slopes.