According to the Federal Highway Administration, 24% of all weather-related accidents occur on snowy or icy pavement. Out of those crashes, over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 are injured. This doesn’t even include the number of those who are killed or injured during snowfall.
With winter weather now affecting many in the U.S., it is extremely important to remember safe driving habits while traveling through snow and ice.
Here are our top 10 winter driving tips:
- Drive slowly. Take your time while driving in snowy/icy weather conditions.
- Make sure that your windshield wiper fluid is filled completely and keep an extra gallon in your car. You can go through a lot of fluid during a snowy commute.
- Keep moving while going up a hill. It is very easy to get stuck or to roll backwards if you do not keep your vehicle in motion.
- Keep a close eye on the weather before any long drives. Either leave in advance or delay your trip during bad weather conditions.
- Make sure that your gas tank is always kept at least half full.
- Leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead of you. The more space between you and other cars when you need to stop, the better.
- It takes longer to slow down on icy roads, so take time when slowing down. Do not move in a hurry.
- If your car begins to slip, don’t panic. Making a sudden move by slamming on your brakes or steering your car immediately in the direction you want to go can actually cause more harm then good.
- Avoid using cruise control.
- If leaving home can be avoided, do it. Sometimes driving in snowy weather is just not worth the risk.
BONUS TIP: Remember, it is also important to immediately follow crucial steps if you do ever end up in an accident. This includes calling the police immediately and calling an attorney before admitting to any kind of fault. For more information, visit our Car Accident Information page.