Winter Driving
Winter driving is tricky. It requires you to prepare your vehicle for the weather to make sure that it will operate effectively in freezing weather and icy conditions. If you travel out of town, it is also important that you bring a winter car kit in case you need fix your car on the road.
Some hazards of winter driving include:
- Icy roads and black (or clear) ice
- Snow
- Freezing rain
- Carbon monoxide poisoning (from ventilation)
- Low Visibility
During winter, it is also important to remember that roads may be closed or not yet cleared of snow, and that other drivers may not know how to drive in winter conditions. So, just be careful out there!
Vehicle Maintenance
It is recommended that you take your vehicle into the shop before winter hits. There are a number of things you must obtain for your vehicle for winter such as:
- Winter tires
- Anti-freeze
- Defrosters
To prevent potential carbon monoxide poisoning, the following tune ups should be performed:
- Check the exhaust system and radiator hoses for leaks.
- Check the battery charging system and replace the battery, if needed.
- Check the ignition system for broken wires or caps.
Other maintenance operations and tuneups should be performed to ensure responsive handling on icy roads:
- Adjust the brakes for even and consistent breaking strength
- Adjust your wheel alignment.
- Check tire tread for wear and tear.
- Check and replace all lights as needed.
Winter Driving Kit
If you plan to drive outside of the city during the winter, we ask you to pack a winter driving kit. Since cell-phone coverage and services are limited, you may have to help yourself if your vehicle becomes stuck in snow or an accident occurs.
The following items should be packed in your driving kit:
- Properly fitting tire chains
- Bag of sand, salt, or kitty litter
- Tow rope
- Traction map
- Snow shovel
- Snow brush
- Ice scraper
- Booster cables
- Warning flares or emergency lights
- Fuel line de-icer
- Extra windshield wiper
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Extra set of clothes and footwear
- First aid kit
- Small supply of food and water
- Matches and candles
- Road maps
Driving in Snow And Ice
Preparing For A Trip
Before you leave for your trip, remember to:
- Check your local snow and ice report.
- Check on the weather conditions for that day.
- Plan your route and arrival time.
- Bring warm outdoor clothing with you in your vehicle.
- Bring sunglasses to prevet snow glare.
- Carry a fully charged cellphone at all times.
Driving and Road Etiquette
While driving, you must modify your behavior to match the conditions:
- Drive below the speed limit (or the posted limit for ideal conditions).
- Reduce speed before your reach an intersection.
- Lengthen the following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Maintain a safe distance from snow plows
- Do not attempt to pass a snow plow.
- Drive with headlights on low-beam.
- Stay on the right-hand lane unless you are passing.
Worst Case Scenarios and Accidents
You may find yourself in a serious situation despite taking all of the precautions above. It is important to maintain being active and pro-active, with the following suggestions in mind:
- Keep an eye out for traffic or help.
- Stay in your vehicle, if safe and possible.
- Deploy up road flares.
- Bundle up and stay warm.
- Run the car 10 minutes per hour to maintian heat.
- Keep an eye on the road. Stay awake, if possible.
- Monitor yourself and others for signs of frostbite or hypothermia
- Exercise and move to stay warm.