What are the precautions for driving on icy and snowy roads?

[VanCamille]

Precautions for driving on icy and snowy roads include: 1. Appropriately reduce tire pressure to increase traction; 2. Promptly defrost and defog to maintain good driving visibility, and pay attention to the operating conditions of vehicles around you; 3. Start without accelerating or accelerate gently to prevent wheel spin and skidding; 4. Drive straight as much as possible and avoid frequent lane changes; 5. Lightly apply brakes to slow down during turns and downshift in the middle of the turn to avoid skidding; 6. Control your speed when going downhill, gently press the accelerator to maintain a steady speed. Factors affecting safe driving on icy and snowy roads are: 1. Slippery road surfaces reduce vehicle stability, worsen braking performance, increase braking distance, and wheels are prone to spin or skid when accelerating too quickly; 2. Snow reflection of light can easily cause driver glare and illusions.

[VanCharlie]

Driving on icy and snowy roads is a common occurrence for me, as I live in a cold region where I have to navigate snow-covered roads every winter. The key points are to slow down and drive at a reduced speed—at least half the normal speed—while maintaining smooth throttle control to avoid any sudden acceleration or braking. Increase your following distance; if the normal gap is two seconds, extend it to four or five seconds in snowy or icy conditions to allow ample reaction time. Steer gently and avoid abrupt movements, as the car is prone to skidding. Remember to switch to winter tires or carry snow chains, as regular tires have poor traction on ice. Before setting off, I always check the braking system, battery condition, and wipers to ensure the vehicle is in good working order. Keep emergency tools in the car: a snow shovel for clearing ice, blankets and water in case of being stranded, along with a flashlight and snacks. Stay focused while driving by turning off your phone to avoid distractions. If a blizzard is forecasted, try to stay home—safety comes first. These habits have kept me safe through dozens of snowy drives, giving me a strong sense of security.

[Melissa]

As a car enthusiast, I understand the essentials of winter driving from a technical perspective. Winter tires are the top choice—their special rubber compound stays softer in cold temperatures, and the tread pattern enhances traction on ice, whereas regular tires tend to harden and lose grip below freezing. Before heading out, check tire pressure and maintain it at the recommended level. Drive with gentle acceleration, use engine braking to assist deceleration, and minimize reliance on the brakes. While ABS prevents wheel lockup, hard braking can still cause skidding. Four-wheel drive aids traction but is most effective at lower speeds. Keep steering inputs small and smooth, avoiding sudden turns that may induce skidding. If the ESP or TCS indicator lights up on the dashboard, it means the stability control system is active—drive even more cautiously. Don’t forget antifreeze and windshield wiper tools to prevent frozen wipers from obstructing visibility. These details significantly improve safety and confidence on snowy and icy roads.

[TaylorMarie]

The first time I drove on icy roads, I was terrified, but later I learned some basic precautions. Slowing down is crucial—drive much slower than usual and press the throttle gently. Keep a greater following distance, at least twice the normal gap, in case the car ahead brakes suddenly. Brake early and softly to avoid skidding, and steer steadily without sharp turns. If possible, winter tires make driving much easier. Keep a small snow shovel and water in the car for emergencies like getting stuck. Before driving, check the lights and heater to ensure the car is in good condition. Following these tips has made my winter driving much safer.