What are the precautions for driving in winter?
3 Answers
Precautions for driving in winter: 1. Warm up the car; 2. Drive gently; 3. Pay attention to road conditions; 4. Ensure safety when overtaking or meeting other vehicles; 5. Wear sunglasses when driving after snow; 6. Be cautious of slippery roads when braking; 7. Check tires; 8. Remove high heels or boots; 9. Defog mirrors; 10. Wear appropriate cold-weather clothing. In addition to fog, snow, and road conditions, winter driving also involves vehicle maintenance and driving habits. Prolonged idling to warm up the engine can harm the engine and catalytic converter, shortening the vehicle's lifespan. Avoid sudden acceleration, maintain low speed and low RPM, and warm up the car while driving. Neglecting these precautions can pose safety risks.
I started driving when I was young and have accumulated a lot of experience. Checking the car's condition before driving in winter is particularly important. Use winter tires or install snow chains, and keep the tire pressure at the recommended value, otherwise, it's easy to skid on icy or snowy roads. The battery also needs frequent checks, as low temperatures often cause starting difficulties. I make it a habit to start the car and let it warm up for a few minutes each week. Don’t overlook brake fluid and antifreeze—use winter-specific products to avoid freezing, which can affect braking distance. Replace the wipers in time and switch to antifreeze windshield washer fluid to ensure clear visibility. Keep a snow shovel, spare blankets, and ropes in the car, and stock water and snacks in the emergency kit. Once, my battery froze halfway, and I had to rely on tools to self-rescue while waiting for a tow truck. In short, thorough preparation beforehand significantly reduces risks.
As a daily commuter, I pay special attention to driving techniques for winter conditions. On icy and slippery roads, I slow down, extend my braking distance by at least double, and maintain a steady speed to avoid sudden acceleration or sharp turns that could cause skidding. I keep my lights on, using fog lights or daytime running lights to enhance visibility, and avoid tailgating to prevent rear-end collisions. Black ice is a hidden threat—what looks like a smooth road can suddenly cause loss of control, so I practice gentle braking and steering adjustments. Cold weather reduces tire grip, so I start gently and keep engine RPM stable. I also watch for pedestrians wearing dark clothing who are harder to see, slowing down in residential areas. Staying calm is crucial—small skids shouldn’t panic me. Practicing ice-handling skills builds confidence, and safe arrival depends on smooth, controlled driving.
