Why is it dangerous to overtake on slushy roads during heavy snow?
2 Answers
Overtaking on slushy roads during heavy snow is dangerous because the road surface beneath the slush is more prone to slipping, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the splashing slush reduces visibility, and braking in emergency situations is also affected. Therefore, attempting to overtake during heavy snow is highly risky, as overtaking typically involves high speeds. Here are some precautions to take when driving in snowy conditions: 1. Maintain a steady speed: Drive slowly, avoiding sudden braking, sharp steering, or aggressive acceleration. Snow makes the road slippery, and driving too aggressively increases danger. Also, maintain a safe distance to avoid rear-end collisions. 2. Clear snow from the windshield: If the wipers are frozen, do not force them to operate to prevent damaging the motor. The correct approach is to turn on the car's heater to warm the windshield and accelerate the melting of ice and snow. 3. Stay focused while driving: During heavy snow, it is crucial to concentrate fully on driving. Avoid distractions such as making phone calls or smoking while driving.
I've been driving trucks in the north for over 20 years, encountering snowy and slushy road conditions every winter, where overtaking poses significant risks. Slush is a mixture of melted snow and mud, making the roads as slippery as if they were greased, with poor vehicle traction. When you press the accelerator to speed up, the wheels are prone to spinning; changing lanes increases the likelihood of skidding. Additionally, heavy snowfall reduces visibility, snow covers the rearview mirrors, and the taillights of vehicles ahead are hard to see, making collisions more likely. When it's windy, snow blows directly at you, making it nearly impossible to spot safe overtaking opportunities. Most accidents I've seen occur when drivers underestimate road conditions and attempt risky overtakes for speed, leading to rear-end collisions or rollovers. It's crucial to always carry snow chains and maintain a steady speed. On snowy days, it's best to avoid overtaking altogether—safe driving is a hundred times more important than saving time.
