Tips to Stay Safe on a Winter Road Trip

How to Stay Safe on a Winter Road Trip

February 21, 2023

Winter road trips can be a fun and exciting way to explore new places and make memories with friends and family. However, taking the necessary precautions to stay safe on the road is important. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on a winter road trip:

Service your Car

Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and ready for safe winter driving.

Have winter tires

If you have not already done so, switch your summer tires for winter ones. They provide more traction, which is essential for turning and stopping on icy or wet surfaces. Check the tire tread and pressure before you head out.

Top up the gas tank

Keep your gas tank at least half full when driving in cold or bad weather in case there is an emergency.

Check your battery

Get your battery checked if it is older than three years. Make sure the cable ends and terminals are free of corrosion and have tight connections.

Check fluid levels

Top up the windshield fluid and make sure it is suitable for low temperatures. Have an extra jug in your car. Replace your windshield wipers if they are not in good condition. Also check the level of the engine coolant/antifreeze.

Use these safe winter driving tips

Stay safe on a winter road trip by remembering these winter driving tips:

Be visible and see the road

Make sure all your car’s lights are working and keep them clear of snow. Also, make sure to clear your windows, windshield, and mirrors of snow so you can see the road.

Slow down and don’t follow too closely

Slowing down can be an important part of safe winter driving. In winter weather, it takes longer to stop on snow and ice. To reduce the risk of a collision, reduce your speed and don’t follow other vehicles too closely. This will give you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you makes an unexpected move. f

Use your headlights

Turn your headlights on during the day to increase visibility and make your vehicle more visible to other drivers. This is especially important in snowy or foggy conditions.

Do not get distracted

Avoid using your phone or other devices while driving. Keep your attention on the road and pull over if you need to eat or check your route. Figure out how to get where you are going before you leave.

Be aware of black ice

Black ice is often invisible to drivers. Be extra cautious when driving on bridges and overpasses, as these areas are more likely to be affected by it.

Accelerate and decelerate gradually

It takes longer to slow down on icy roads, so allow more time. Speed up gradually to avoid skidding. Apply steady pressure when braking, keeping your heel on the floor of your car.

Do not stop on a hill

Avoid stopping when going up a hill, if possible, so you can get going again. Do not apply extra gas so your wheels do not spin.

Check the weather forecast and road conditions

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and road conditions for your destination and along your route. Avoid driving in severe weather conditions such as heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain. If you encounter bad weather, pull over and wait for it to subside before continuing your journey.

Make sure to tell someone where you are going and when you should be back.