Is it safe to drive in snow and slush?
According to the Federal Highway Administration, about a quarter of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement and 15 percent happen during snowfall or sleet. Now for the good news. With the right preparation, you can travel safely even when the weather turns on you.
What’s the best way to drive in snow?
When you brake, snow on top can slide forward and cover your windshield. Brush off snow from your lights, so you have the best light on the road and other drivers can see you. Reduce your speed and leave more space between you and the vehicle ahead.
What happens if you hit a slick spot in the snow?
Sooner or later you will hit a slick spot and get a queasy feeling in the pit of your stomach as your car starts to slide away from the direction in which you want to be heading. Skids, even big ones, can be managed, and you can bring the car back under full control in short order.
How does a car work in the snow?
They send their power to all four wheels rather than just two, which on slippery surfaces enables impressive, slip-free acceleration, especially from rest— which can make it feel as if you have much more traction than you actually do.
What happens when you drive in snow with front wheel drive?
If you are learning how to drive in snow with front wheel drive, one of the first things that you are likely to encounter is reduced stability when it comes to your steering. If you make quick movements in your car, such as stopping or accelerating too quickly, you may loose control over your vehicle.
Can a front wheel drive car go up a hill in winter?
If you stop while you are going up a hill in the winter, you may end up getting stuck! Front wheel drive vehicles have a hard time making it up hills, and by stopping on a hill you are not allowing yourself the time an space necessary to gain the inertia needed to make it up the rest of the hill. It should go without saying, but slow down!
What should you do when driving in snow?
Stop the car and clear the windows and lights as needed while driving during snowfall. Don’t forget to clear snow off of your number plate, as it is a legal requirement for your number plate to be visible in many places.
Is it safe to drive without snow tires?
Without snow tires, there’s only so much that other safety measure you take while driving can do for you. Snow tires will help you to feel safe and secure while on the road. Moving too fast, too quickly to make it up a hill can lead to problems and cause you to spin out, this is especially true for people driving front wheel drive cars and trucks.