Driving in the winter can be quite hazardous. You have to deal with the unique challenges that slippery black ice, heavy snowfall, and blinding blizzards bring.
The stats don't lie: Each year, around 1,300 people are killed and 116,800 are injured due to crashes on snowy or icy roads. About 900 die and 76,000 are injured while driving a snowstorm.
Are you wondering how to stay safe behind the wheel in these conditions? Learn how to conquer the roads with these winter driving safety tips.
1. How to Safely Drive on Black Ice
Black ice is one of the most dangerous things you can encounter in the winter because it's almost invisible to the naked eye. Black ice is a thin layer of ice that typically forms at night or in the early morning when temperatures are at their coldest. It looks very similar to a wet spot on the road, but if you hit it, you're in for a surprise.
If you encounter black ice, here's how you maintain control of your car in a skid:
Remain calm.
Remove your foot from the gas or brake pedal.
Look in the direction you need to go.
Slowly turn the wheel in the direction of the skid (if your tail-end is going to the right, turn right).
Slowly straighten the wheel once you're out of the skid.
2. Snowy Road Safety Techniques
Snow-covered roads can be treacherous. As long as you stay calm and keep your vehicle under control, you'll be safe driving in snow and ice with these tips:
Use the appropriate tires — If you live in an area that gets very cold or receives a lot of snow, invest in winter tires. Winter tires are designed with rubber that grips better in colder temperatures and deep tread patterns that don't get clogged with snow. If you only see snow a few times a winter, all-season tires will suffice.
Slow down — The faster you are going, the longer it takes you to stop. That could be deadly in wintery conditions.
Increase your following distance — The typical following distance is three seconds. You should double it in adverse conditions to give yourself time to react to other vehicles.
Brake cautiously — Never slam on your brakes in poor traction conditions. Your vehicle is likely to enter a skid or slide. It is comparable to how you would handle hydroplaning.
3. What if You're Caught in a Blizzard?
Unless you're closely monitoring the weather, you could unexpectedly end up driving during a blizzard. Don't panic! If you take it slow and drive confidently, you'll make it through safely.
The biggest issue you'll deal with is low visibility. To combat this, turn on both your headlights and hazard lights. This will let other vehicles see you more easily. If you can find a safe place to pull over, especially on a highway, it's a smart idea to do this until the blizzard passes. It's not worth the risk!
Additional Winter Safety Tips
Outside of handling dangerous road conditions, there are a few other ways to prepare yourself for winter.
Prepare an emergency kit — An emergency roadside kit should contain vehicle fluids like oil, anti-freeze, and wiper fluid, jumper cables or a jump pack, and a few snacks and drinks. When winter rolls around, don't forget to add in some heavy blankets, hats, gloves, an ice scraper, a small snow shovel, and some traction mats.
Get your car ready — Make sure your tire pressure is correct and your windows are fully defrosted before every trip. Remove any snow from your vehicle, it is illegal to drive in some states with a snow-covered car.
Fuel up — You never want to run out of gas in the winter. If you get stranded, you'll need it for heat.
Plan ahead — Always check the forecast or use your weather app before you head out. If the conditions look bad, you might want to reschedule your plans.
Drive Safely In Winter Weather Conditions
If you can avoid driving in winter conditions, it's best to do so. If you do end up driving on treacherous winter roads, you now have an idea of how to handle them.
Updated 02/14/2025
