What should be the safe following distance when driving on highways in snowy conditions?
3 Answers
In snowy conditions with low visibility, the safe distance should be controlled based on visibility. Specific guidelines are as follows: 1. Visibility less than 50m: When visibility is less than 50m, you should exit the highway. 2. Visibility less than 100m: When visibility is less than 100m, maintain a distance of at least 50m from the vehicle in front. 3. Visibility less than 200m: When visibility is less than 200m, maintain a distance of at least 100m from the vehicle in front. Additional information: Introduction to safe following distance: Safe following distance refers to the necessary gap that a following vehicle maintains with the vehicle ahead to avoid accidental collisions while driving.
I've driven on the highway several times in snowy conditions. I remember last year on my way home during heavy snow, I almost had an accident because the following distance was too short. Now I always remind myself to keep at least twice the usual distance, preferably a four to six-second gap. What does that mean? You focus your eyes on a roadside marker, start counting seconds when the car in front passes it, and you should count at least four seconds by the time you reach that same point to be safe. On snowy roads, braking distance can be twice as long as on dry roads, so leave extra space to prevent skidding or sudden stops by the car ahead. Keep your speed below 80 km/h, accelerate and decelerate gradually, and use snow tires or chains. Keep your lights on so others can see you clearly. Regularly check your tire pressure, and don’t take risks just to save time. Safety is the top priority, especially in bad weather—those extra few seconds of following distance could be life-saving.
Back when I was learning to drive, my instructor always reminded me to be extra careful when driving on the highway in snowy conditions. I would always count the distance between cars—normally three seconds in clear weather, but extending it to about five seconds when it snows. Why is this? The road is slippery, braking takes longer, and you might not react in time to avoid a rear-end collision. Find a reference point—after the car in front passes it, count to five before you reach the same point, and you'll be safe. Keep your speed below 60 km/h, avoid lane changes or overtaking, as it’s easy to lose control. I remember during the first snowfall, I drove a bit too fast and my car slid, but luckily, the extra distance I left saved me. Turn on your lights, especially fog lights, to improve visibility. Tires are crucial—if the tread is worn, replace them with new ones. Stay calm and don’t panic, plan your trip to reduce risks.
