Why does it seem as though some peoples driving skills are so much more advanced when it comes to driving safely in inclement conditions? Well, it could be a number of things.
Safety winter driving tips
Here are a few of the most important tips for driving safely when trying to travel in snow, ice, rain, or sleet this winter.
Relaxation
First and foremost is relaxation. One should always try to maintain a relaxed state and not be anxious when driving safely in the snow. Most accidents that occur in bad weather are often caused by the insecurities of the driver, not just the road conditions. This prevents you from making irrational decisions when you don’t have much time to react. Feeling relaxed while behind the wheel can get you out of the worst of circumstances due to unsafe or unsure driving conditions.
Driving Safely in the Snow
Driving safely in the snow starts before you even get in the drivers seat. Find out the local weather conditions before you hit the road. This will give you a good idea on local traffic, how much snow you will actually have to deal with, if the snow is accumulative or not, and how long you should give yourself to reach your destination safely.
The air in your tires should be checked on a regular basis as this has an enormous effect on how your car will handle when stopping, taking off from a stop, and turning. Make sure you always have a spare shovel handy. If you happen to slide into a ditch, it is easier to dig yourself out. Always have an ice scraper with you at all times while driving safely in winter conditions.
Poor visibility causes poor drivability. Make sure you have more than enough gas just in case your car has to be idle in cold, winter conditions. This will allow you to run the heater as needed. As for driving, well, let’s get started. Always try to drive at or below the posted speed. It takes longer to stop, and turns are much more dangerous. Do not follow too close to the driver in front of you.
While driving safely in the snow, leave yourself enough room to stop in time in case of an emergency situation. Remember, it is extremely hard to spot ice patches, so just assume the worst. Just assume there can always be an ice patch right underneath your tires. If you happen to go into a skid due to snow or ice, stay calm, and turn into the spin. Do not slam on the brakes as this will cause you to spin out of control (depending on what speed you are going), and will be harder to realign yourself with the road, or come to a safe stop. Simply steer into the turn, and lightly pump the breaks.
Driving Safely in the Rain
The rain is a much easier element to drive safely in with most cases. Make sure to always check your windshield wipers are secured properly, and has a safe amount of rubber left on the blade itself. The wiper blade is the first defense against rainy conditions. Next, check to make sure your tire pressure is where it should be. The PSI is always listed on the tire itself. Last, but not least, make sure to drive the speed limit especially when roads are wet and slippery. Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the other one ahead of you.
And always, always, always, wear your safety belt, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
These are fantastic tips thank you