How To Remain Safe While Driving in Snow

Winter is finally here, and with it comes bad weather that makes driving challenging and dangerous. Many drivers, especially the new ones, struggle to get through slushy, snowy or slippery roads at some point. If you also face challenges while driving in snow, you’re in the right place, as the highly experienced automobile professionals at Budds’ Chevrolet Buick GMC have outlined below some tested tips that can help you get through snow or ice-covered roads safely and confidently. Take a look!

[ALSO READ: How to Store Your Car Safely During Winter]

Driving in Winter Weather

1. Before the Winter Season Starts

You should always get your car prepared for winter before the season starts, to make sure you remain safe and enjoy the optimum performance of the vehicle. Preparing your car includes scheduling winter auto maintenance, looking after your car battery, switching to winter tires and getting an emergency survival kit ready.

2. Before Leaving Home or Work

Safe winter driving begins right from your home or workplace. Before leaving the space, make sure to check the weather forecast; if the condition looks unfavourable or unsafe, delay your trip if you can. If you’re in Ontario, you can use Ontario511 to check the road conditions, as well as find out where plows are on different provincial highways. Make sure to also clear off snow from your windows, lights, side mirrors and roof for enhanced visibility.

3. While on the Road

• Slow down and maintain a steady speed to avoid collisions with other vehicles on a slippery or snow-covered road. 
• Avoid using adaptive cruise control on icy or wet roads, as it may result in delayed response while braking. 
• Make sure to steer gently and avoid quick acceleration, hard braking and instant gear changes. 
• Always have extra distance with the vehicle moving ahead to avoid collision.
• Don’t forget to use the full lighting system of your car. This means always have your headlights, taillights, foglights and DRLs on to ensure you see and be seen on a winter road. 
• Be mindful of the snowplows. 

For more such safe winter driving tips, visit Budds’ Chevrolet Buick GMC to speak to our highly experienced automobile experts and technicians. Got any questions? Call us at 905-845-1681, today!