drivingExtreme weather, especially winter, can be really detrimental for your car. It is a big reason why experts will recommend you to schedule a repair and maintenance check up just before the winter season comes. As you may know, the driving conditions during winter such as ice, snow, and rain can have a massive impact on your vehicle’s braking distance. Your ability to complete a safe and smooth stop can become massively restricted because of the reduction in tire traction.

So, if you want to stop safely, make sure that your car’s wheels keep their traction by staying in contact with the surface of the road. When driving on slippery roads during the winter, the main keys to remain safe are gentler turns and stops, slower speeds, and most importantly, increased distances.

Tips to be an Efficient Driver on Snow and Ice

The first thing worth keeping in mind that you must reduce your driving speed to just half of the speed limit (or even less) when it’s snowing. You’d be surprised to learn that low tread depth can get you into serious trouble, especially if on dry pavement.

Consider the Tire Pressure

Tire pressure often gets lower during the winter and increases during the summer. Tires without a sufficient amount of inflation can cause cars to become slower, especially when trying to steer them. Whenever the outside pressure drops by ten to twelve degrees, your tire’s air pressure goes down by a couple of PSIs.

It is also worth keeping in mind that tires tend to lose air because of permeation. So, make sure that you check your tire pressure regularly during the winters and add enough air for maintaining regular inflation levels.

Slow Down

As simple as it may seem, slowing down your vehicle really helps when driving on snow. You can even take an extra step and make the words “slow down” a mantra. Doing so will help you stay extra cautious when driving on the snow during winters. Cold temperatures, cold, ice, snow, slush, and rain reduce traction from your tire and make stopping twice as difficult. Driving slowly will ensure that you don’t make hasty errors keeping you safe from dangerous accidents.

Maintain a Safe Distance

The last thing you want to do is drive your car too close to the other, it is a surefire way to crash into someone else. Fortunately, there is an easy way out of this, and that is to maintain a safe distance. Sure, you may reach your desired destination 15 or 20 minutes late, but it’s far better than getting involved in an accident.

It would also help if you didn’t make any sudden movements when driving on snow. Pump your brakes as gently as you can, and you will remain safe during your travels.