Safe Driving Tips for Winter

Weather is a major culprit in U.S. roads, causing over 21% of the nearly 5.9 million annual crashes. Slippery, icy roads account for a staggering 13% of these accidents, while another 16% occur on roads transformed into snowy or slushy skating rinks.

Winter weather can be treacherous for drivers of all experience levels. To help you navigate the coldest season safely, we've compiled a list of essential winter driving tips.

Don't let snow and ice put you at risk. 

Before you hit the road, make sure to completely clear your vehicle. That means scraping off all the snow and ice from your hood, lights, windows, and roof. And don't forget to clear the inside of your windows to ensure a clear view.

Failure to clear snow from your roof can be dangerous. If the snow slides onto your windshield while braking, it can obstruct your view and cause an accident. In some regions, this is also a fineable offense.

For your safety and the safety of others, always turn on your headlights when visibility is reduced due to heavy snow or fog.

Use winter tires

Regular tires become stiff in cold temperatures, reducing their ability to grip the road. Winter tires, with their unique tread patterns and rubber compounds, are engineered to maintain flexibility and provide excellent traction on snow and ice.

When purchasing winter tires, always look for the mountain snowflake symbol. This certification ensures the tire meets specific performance standards for driving on snow. Avoid using wide, high-performance tires on snowy roads as they are not designed for winter conditions. To maintain optimal traction, ensure your tires have at least 4 mm of tread depth.

Additionally, proper installation is crucial. Directional tires should be mounted according to the sidewall markings and consider placing your best tires on the rear axle for enhanced stability. Remember to regularly check tire pressure and tread depth to ensure maximum performance throughout the winter

Routine Maintenance

Proper vehicle maintenance is essential during harsh winter conditions. Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Consider a pre-winter inspection by a qualified mechanic to check components such as the battery, lights, brakes, tires, exhaust system, heating and cooling system, and windshield wipers.