What is the appropriate speed for a car equipped with snow chains?
3 Answers
After installing snow chains, it is necessary to control the speed. Generally, the driving speed should not exceed 40km/h, and sudden acceleration or deceleration should be avoided during driving. The following are precautions for installing snow chains: Before installing snow chains, the snow on the driving wheels of the car should be cleared. After cleaning the tires, lay the snow chains flat in front of the tires. After laying the snow chains, drive the vehicle forward half the length of the snow chains so that the force point of the car tire is in the middle of the snow chains, which can facilitate better installation. After stopping the car, first fasten the hook on the inner side of the tire, then fasten the hook on the outer side of the tire, and use tools to tighten the snow chains. Move the vehicle forward again to adjust the connection point at the force position, secure the tire snow chains, and install the snow chains on the other side using the same method.
I think driving at 30 to 50 kilometers per hour with snow chains is the safest. After years of driving, I've seen many accidents caused by excessive speed—like chains breaking or vehicles losing control. On snowy slippery roads, anything over 40 km/h feels unstable, with chains rattling and tires wearing out quickly. If chains loosen, they might even hit other vehicles. My advice is to only install them when urgently needed on snow, remove them promptly after use, avoid highways if possible, regularly check chain tightness, and never prioritize speed over safety.
I've been driving for thirty years and have used snow chains several times. Speed really can't be high. Experience tells me that around 30km/h is the most stable, and on ice, pushing it to 45km/h is already quite risky. One winter, I accelerated to 60km/h, and the chains came off, nearly causing an accident. Since then, I've driven slowly, listening to the sound of the wheels to judge road conditions—slow down if the snow is thick, and go slightly faster if it's thin but be careful of excessive chain wear. Don't just watch the speedometer; observing the movement of other vehicles is also crucial. Safety first.
