How to Drive in Snow: 6 Tips for Safe Winter Driving in Temple Hills, MD

Are you ready for winter weather? With winter conditions comes slick roads and poor driving conditions. Whether you just recently moved to the area, or you want to brush up on what to do when driving in snow, check out these tips for safe winter driving and learn how to drive in snow.

Slow Down Your Driving

Of all the winter driving tips you’ll get; this is a tip of upmost importance. By simply slowing down when you’re driving on slick, snow-covered roads, it can create a more safe and secure drive. When you slow down, you won’t need as much distance to stop your vehicle when you need to, and if the road is slick, you won’t slide as far when you try to stop as you would if you were going faster.

Increase Distance Behind the Car in Front of You

When the streets are slick because of snow and ice, you need to know it will take you longer to stop than it usually does. For this reason, increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. You want to be able to stop in time and keeping an enhanced distance can help. By leaving enough space, you’ll also have time to make evasive maneuvers if necessary.

Don’t Stop When Going Uphill

When you stop your car on snowy or icy roads, you may not be able to get it moving again. This is especially true if you’re headed uphill. If you hit an icy or snow-packed patch, and you stop, your wheels can just spin when you try to accelerate again. In fact, you may end up sliding back down the hill, which can cause a very dangerous situation. Get some speed before reaching the hill and try not to stop.

Steer in the Direction of a Slide

If you feel your car start to slide as it hits a slippery section of the road, turn your steering wheel in the same direction you’re sliding. It’s natural to want to turn against the slide, but if you do, when your car regains traction, you’ll have to over-correct your turn to stay in your lane.

Pull Over in Low Visibility Conditions

If you find yourself driving when a snowstorm hits and you’re not able to see through the snow very well, pull off the road to a safe place and wait for conditions to improve. Whiteout conditions are just as bad as snow-packed or icy roads for car accidents.

Prepare Your Car with a Winter Service at Our Service Center

Driving in the snow is a skill that takes some time to learn. These tips should help, but you should also have your car inspected before you head out into the weather to ensure it’s safe to drive. From a tire change to winter tires to ensuring that fluids are topped off and making sure that the brakes and battery are working correctly, there are many services that we can do to help prepare your vehicle for the winter weather ahead. Contact DARCARS Kia of Temple Hills to schedule your winterization appointment today.

Tags: How to Drive in the Snow, Winter Driving Safety Tips
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