What should be paid attention to when driving a motor vehicle on icy and snowy roads?
4 Answers
Precautions for driving a motor vehicle on icy and snowy roads: 1. Slow down and drive cautiously, especially on snow-covered and icy roads. Pass through icy surfaces steadily at a reduced speed; 2. Avoid sudden braking, as it can easily cause skidding or rear-end collisions; 3. The temperature difference between the inside and outside of the vehicle is significant in snowy conditions, leading to fogging on the windows. Ensure clear visibility inside the vehicle; 4. When turning, yield to pedestrians and other vehicles to prevent accidents, especially on icy and snowy roads where slippery conditions make it difficult to stop; 5. Windshield wipers can easily freeze in snowy weather. Do not use them until they are thawed to avoid damaging the motor; 6. Many roads may be icy. Vehicles with very low ground clearance should avoid passing through to prevent getting stuck or damaging the undercarriage.
Having driven in the north for many years and experienced countless icy and snowy roads, the top priority is to drive slowly. Wheel slippage is all too common, so I always keep my speed under 40 km/h, especially when turning—steer gently and avoid sharp turns to prevent losing control. Increase your following distance; if you normally leave 10 meters, now leave over 20 meters to ensure you can brake steadily if the car ahead suddenly stops. When starting, press the accelerator lightly—no sudden acceleration, or you’ll risk wheel spin. Defogging the windows is crucial; set the air conditioning to defrost mode to keep the windshield clear. Tire checks are also essential: ensure proper pressure, and if the tread is too worn, switch to snow tires or add chains immediately. If you get stuck, keep a small shovel and ropes in the car for self-rescue. Don’t rush when driving in snow—patience is the key to getting home safely.
When driving on icy or snowy roads, pay special attention to controlling your rhythm. Press the accelerator smoothly—don’t floor it—to ensure steady acceleration and prevent skidding. For braking, gentle taps are best; sudden braking can lock the wheels and cause skidding. Double your following distance—if you normally keep 50 meters, now leave 100 meters to give yourself reaction time. Slow down before turning and avoid sharp steering to minimize rollover risks. Check your tires for sufficient tread depth; if they’re worn, switching to snow tires saves money and ensures safety. Turn on the defroster to maintain clear visibility. Carry emergency supplies like a first-aid kit and a small blanket in case you get stranded. Use low beams or fog lights for better visibility in rain or snow. Overall, slow down all movements and minimize sudden maneuvers for the safest drive.
I usually drive my kids to school, and icy roads in winter make me the most nervous. I keep my speed under 20 km/h on the road, driving steadily to feel at ease. I maintain a longer distance from other cars, especially near the school where there are many people, so I won't rear-end anyone if the car ahead suddenly stops. I press the accelerator gently and avoid rushing when starting to prevent tire spin. I turn on the defroster as soon as I get in the car to keep the windshield clear for better visibility. I check the tire treads several times—worn-out tires affect anti-skid performance, and replacing them gives me peace of mind. Occasionally, I check the weather in advance and decide to stay home if the snow is heavy, as it's safer. Driving slowly and staying patient is the key.
