Driving in a Snowstorm (Winter Driving Tips)

It's no secret that winter time is a stressful period for many motorists around the world. Extreme weather conditions and darker nights always adds a little more precaution whilst on the roads.

One example of an extreme weather condition is a snowstorm, which by definition means “a heavy fall of snow, especially with a high wind”.

Particularly in the UK, there is a possibility that you might have to drive in a snowstorm. Therefore, it is important to understand how to tackle this dangerous driving condition, to make sure you have the safest possible journey to your destination.

Calm Before The Storm – Plan Journey Before You Set Out

It is always important to plan out your journey before a tricky weather forecast ahead. This gives you a better chance of a safe travel out on the roads.

To start with a pretty obvious one – stay home if you are not comfortable with driving or are strongly advised not to drive through the conditions outside.

Now, if you are heading out on your travels, please:

• Ensure all windows are defrosted with the traffic behind and in front of you is clearly visible – this includes having an ice scraper and de-icer for your car windows
• Check your car tyre tread depth
• Check to make sure windscreen wipers are in working condition
• Have a flashlight in your car with extra batteries – in the case of a car malfunction, carry out an emergency check with the flashlight in hand
• Look to see if your car’s oil needs changed
• Plan your route – choose primary roads for your travel and avoid shortcuts through less travelled areas
• Keep your phone charged and/or have a phone charger with you in case of emergency

Once you have prepared correctly for a snowstorm, you can set off on your journey.

Drive Slowly

Probably the most important part of driving a snowstorm is driving slowly.

The recommended speeds whilst driving through heavy snow is anything less than 30mph, even if you are driving in a 60mph speed limit. Higher speeds than 30mph during a snowstorm will enhance the risk of an emergency on the roads.

Driving cautiously during a snowstorm will ensure you can have the best possible traction on the road, giving your tyres better grip and performance in those difficult climates.

It is also important to stick to sensible speeds when necessary to allow more braking/stopping distance between you and the car in front. In snowy or icy conditions, the braking distance between you and the next car on the road should be ten times more than it is on dry conditions.

The manner in which you drive slowly should be as follows:

• Gradual acceleration
• Choose higher gears to prevent wheel slip
• Slowly follow previous tyre tracks
• Avoid cruise control

Use Appropriate Headlights in Snow

It is recommended that you use your dipped headlights during a snowstorm as they improve visibility without hampering the cars in front.

You must use headlights if visibility is extremely limited. If you cannot see for more than 100 meters, use your headlights, and drive accordingly.

In essence, when driving in tricky conditions such as strong snow, use low-beam headlights instead of high-beam.

Careful Braking

As mentioned above, make sure the braking distance between you and the car in front is ten times more than your braking distance during dry conditions.

If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), do not pump the brakes during snowy conditions. Make sure to use firm and steady pressure on to the brakes of a car with an ABS, as abrupt and stern braking can lead to loss of control and skidding.

If your vehicle does not have an ABS, apply your brakes up to the point of the brakes locking and release the brakes slightly when your wheels are starting to lock up.

Gentle Steering

Steering is another important aspect of safe driving during snowstorms.

Make sure the fundamentals of your steering is cautious – slow and steady steering paired with slower speeds and careful braking will lessen the chance of an accident.

Have a tight grip the steering wheel also – this will maintain control of the wheel.

If you lose control and start to feel your car is skidding, remain calm and steer into the turning of your rear wheels. For example, if your rear wheels are skidding towards the right, steer to the right to start regaining control of the car.

Winter/All-Season Tyres

Lastly, equipping the correct tyres to your car during winter seasons is crucial in heightening levels of grip, safety, and performance.

Winter tyres are designed for conditions such as snowy, wet, or icy conditions. It is recommended to change to winter tyres once temperatures drop below 7°C, so equipping winter tyres is crucial in making sure there are no accidents in your journey through such conditions.

All-season tyres offer a nice alternative to both winter and summer tyres, as these types of tyres are multi-seasonal, fit for use throughout the year. Whilst not giving the same performance in wet conditions to winter tyres, all-season tyres give optimal levels of performance during winter spells, particularly compared to summer tyres.