January 7, 2019
6 Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice: How to Protect Yourself from Winter Road Accidents
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One of the toughest challenges we often face during the winter season is driving our cars on snow-covered or icy pavements. Traveling on snowy roads can be dangerous, especially if you’re not equipped with the skills for it. With over 116,000 injuries and more than 1,300 deaths from car mishaps in the country annually at this time of the year, it’s really important for every motorist to be aware of the basic protocols for winter driving.
As much as we’d like to stay at home, there are just circumstances that require us to travel despite the extreme weather. With that being said, we’ve rounded up a list of safe driving tips to ensure that you keep yourself protected from slippery skids. Check out our 6 tips for driving in snow and ice:
- Drive at a slow and steady pace.
There’s no reason to speed up when you’re on a snow-covered pavement since everything always goes by much slower than usual. No matter how fast you try to accelerate or turn, it’s pretty much useless. Instead of frustratingly finding ways to increase your pace, just maneuver your car as carefully as you can.
- Ascend hills properly.
Upon reaching the foot of a hill, be sure to start your ascent with enough power. Once you’re on top of the hill, reduce your speed and let your vehicle gently make its way down to the other side. Remember, any abrupt movement of your wheels can cause them to spin, so it’s best that you stay extra careful.
- Apply the 8- to 10-second rule.
While dry pavements require you to keep a distance of 3 to 4 seconds between your vehicle and the one ahead of you, icy roads demand 8 to 10 seconds. Since it’s more difficult to slow down on snowy roads, you need to double your space interval for emergency maneuvering or necessary stopping.
- Accelerate slowly.
One of the best ways to prevent skids is by easing up on the gas pedal. When the situation requires you to slow down or accelerate, do it deliberately. Always take time to stop when you’re nearing a stop sign or traffic light.
- Control your brakes carefully.
Most cars we have today come with antilock brake systems (ABS), making drivers feel much safer on the road. Once your ABS-equipped car starts to skid, keep your foot firmly on the floor while applying hard pressure on the brake pedal. If your vehicle doesn’t have ABS, it’s crucial to use threshold braking.
- Avoid stopping unless necessary.
Stopping your car and then getting it to move again can be tough when you’re on an icy pavement. Roads covered in snow make it even worse. As much as possible, only stop fully when you see a red light or a stop sign.
Before you take to the road, we recommend you get your car ready for the cold winter season. If you live in a snowy area, it’s a good idea to invest in snow chains or winter tires. Lastly, have your vehicle serviced and maintained by your trusted mechanic.
Turn Your Old Beater into a Life-Changing Instrument
If your old and ill-equipped car has become too risky to drive especially during winter, consider donating it to us at Veteran Car Donations. We’ll transform it into a source of funding, making it possible for our less fortunate veterans to enjoy civilian life the second time around.
The proceeds from the auction sale of donated vehicles we received are used by our IRS-approved charity partners to provide needy veterans with mortgage-free and specially adapted homes, free physical and mental health care, employment opportunities, job training, transitioning assistance, education scholarships, financial assistance, grief counseling, and many other benefits.
As for you, you will not just have the opportunity to get rid of an unwanted clunker for free but receive a top tax deduction as well!
For more details on our car donation program, check out our FAQs page. For inquiries, you can call our toll-free 24/7 hotline 877-594-5822 or send us a message online.
You can donate to Veteran Car Donations by either calling us or filling out our secure online donation form. We accept vehicle donations wherever you are in the United States since we have car donation programs in all 50 states.
Keep Yourself Safe and Sound This Winter
Photo by cottonbro studio under Pexels License
Being always mindful of the 6 tips for driving in snow and ice will surely keep you safe and sound this winter. If you have a vehicle that’s already unsafe to drive, call us at 877-594-5822 and we’ll quickly haul it away so you won’t be tempted to take a risk driving it. At the same time, think of the veterans shivering in the cold in your area. They will have a bright and sunny future to look forward to with your vehicle donation!
Last Updated: August 23rd, 2023