Driving in the snow may feel like second nature to many of us, especially those of us who grew up and learned to drive in Wisconsin. As a transplant living in Wisconsin, I can confidently say, there are plenty of folks who need a refresher.
We are proud to offer lots of scheduling flexibility at PRN Home Health and Therapy, so our employees are usually able to change their schedules to avoid active snow, but a refresher on snow safety is always helpful. See below for a few tips on how to stay safe while driving in the winter.
The Preparation
These are the things you should be doing before your first snow storm, and if it’s too late for that, do them now! If you do all these things your chances of having an emergency during a storm will decrease and if you do have an emergency, you’ll be prepared.
Tires: when the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure, be sure to put more air in your tires when it gets cold, and check them every few weeks throughout the winter
Battery – it takes more energy and gas for your car to start when it’s cold. Make sure your battery has lots of power and do not let your gas tank go below 1/4th or you may have issues starting your car again
Windshield Wipers: if you are driving in a storm you can go through a ton of windshield fluid, always have a back handy!
Snow Bag: some of these are important items to keep in you car throughout the year but especially in the winter. Chances are, you’ll be caught in a storm at some point, you should always have a shovel and an ice scraper on hand. In the event of an emergency you will want to have food, water, and blankets available, as well as a flashlight, jumper cables, and a cell phone charger. Also consider keeping things like sand as this can be helpful for getting your vehicle unstuck.
While You Are Driving
Drive carefully and under the speed limit if needed. Always account for other drivers, you never know when another may have an emergency, driving slowly and allowing for lots of space will prevent accidents caused by you and keep you out of accidents caused by others.
Pull over when necessary: If you are driving in a storm and the conditions become unsafe to drive in, pull over. Staying on the shoulder of the highway does put you at risk of being hit by out of control vehicles, In situations you should exit the highway and park somewhere safe. A few hours in a parking lot is always better than being in a car accident
Don’t fear the skid: chances are, you’re going to skid at some point if you drive in the snow frequently. Don’t panic and you should be able to get out of it. When your front wheels skid, ease off the gas and focus on the direction you’re trying to go. Usually you’ll get traction back quickly. When your rear tires lose tractions, ease off the gas and turn the wheel in the direction the car is skidding. In both scenarios, do not slam the brakes!
The Takeaway
Just be careful when you’re driving this winter. It might take some time but you will get where you’re going safely.