Winter Weather Driving Tips To Stay Safe This Winter Season

When the colder, winter weather arrives, it wreaks havoc on drivers with the dangerous road conditions, like black ice and snow-covered roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 374 fatal crashes and an estimated 25,000 injury crashes in 2020 that took place during wintry conditions. We want you to stay safe out there, so here are some winter weather driving tips to keep in mind.

Driving In Winter Weather

The first thing to remember when driving in winter weather is to slow down. When driving on slick or snow-covered roads, it is hard to control or stop your vehicle. The NHTSA estimated 119,000 police-reported crashes in 2020 during wintry conditions.

You are also going to want to increase your following distance when driving. You need to give yourself enough time to stop for vehicles in front of you, which takes longer with icy roads. When snow plows are on the road, make sure to not crowd them or drive right next to them. They make frequent stops and turns, so give them the space they need.

In Case of an Emergency

If you happen to get stopped or stall in wintry weather, you should remember to stay focused and do the following things:

• Stay with your car and don't overexert yourself
• Make sure your car can be seen. Do this by putting bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on.
• Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning, if your car is still running. Do this by making sure the exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and make sure to run your vehicle only sporadically (just enough to keep warm). Do not run your vehicle for a long amount of time, especially with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

Your Car Will Change During Winter Months

With colder temperatures, you may start to notice some changes happening to your vehicle. Keep these things in mind and follow the tips for each:

• Tires - Lower temperatures mean lower tire inflation pressure. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended inflation pressure. Check the tires when they are cold (you have not driven on them in at least three hours). Make sure you have a spare tire available.
• Batteries - Lower temperatures mean lower battery power. With colder temperatures, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start. Electric and hybrid-electric vehicles can have their driving range reduced in colder temperatures. Have a mechanic check your battery, charging system and belts in case any repairs or replacements are needed.
• Floor Mats - The wet snow and slushy conditions get tracked into your vehicle and end up on the floor mats. The winter months may be a good time to start using a thicker material floor mat or even rubbery ones. The mats can move around and impede on your use of the gas or brake pedal, which is not a good thing.

Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Ready

Your best bet is to be prepared for those winter weather driving conditions. To do that, here are some tips to help you get your vehicle ready for the colder months.

Windshield Wipers

Make sure your wipers are working and in good condition, as keeping that windshield clear and visible is key. Also, you will be using a lot of windshield wiper fluid during the winter months, so keep that stocked and full.

Lights

Make sure to check all your lights: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights.

Cooling System

If you get stuck somewhere, you may have to run your car more than you would like. Making sure you have enough coolant in your vehicle is key. Check the cooling system for leaks and make sure to drain and replace the old coolant.

Be Prepared For The Drive

Whether you are going out on a road trip or just a drive to work, you should make sure to do the following things, especially during the winter months in case an emergency comes up on the road:

• Whenever possible, try to keep the gas tank as full as possible. Also, for electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, decrease the drain on the battery. Keep your vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures, this will help minimize the drain.
• Plan your route and map it out before leaving the house. Check the weather and road conditions, as well as traffic. Having a plan will help reduce any chance of emergencies coming up on the road.
• Stock Your Vehicle -  Make sure you have all the supplies you may need to handle those winter emergencies, like a snow shovel, broom and ice scraper. Have some sand or kitty litter to use in case you get stuck in the snow. Jumper cables, flashlight and warning devices to make your car be seen. Blankets to stay warm. Cell phone, charger, water and food because you never know how long you may be stuck in that spot.

It can be scary driving in winter weather conditions, but being prepared can help ease that tension. Always remember to slow down and take your time. Better to get their late than never!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.