How to Drive in the Snow Safely

Driving in the snow can feel like an Olympic sport. Everything's different—the road, the wheel traction, the time it takes to brake. 

It's normal to feel nervous, but when you’re equipped with the right tips and tricks, you’ll be able to journey down snowy roads with confidence.

In this guide, we'll show you how to drive in the snow safely, making your winter driving experience a lot less stressful.

Understanding the Challenge: Is Driving in Snow Hard?

Ever tried catching a soap bar in the bath? That's pretty much what driving in snow feels like. 

Tyres lose grip, visibility is often poor, and even the best drivers can find it challenging. 

However, knowing what to do in snowy situations can help keep you calm and steady behind the wheel. 

Driving in Snow: Tips for Beginners

For beginners, driving in the snow can feel like a juggling act. 

You've got to balance keeping your car under control while maintaining visibility. 

The key is to take it slow and easy, avoid sharp turns or sudden stops, and always be aware of your surroundings. 

Remember, slow and steady wins the race in the snow.

Tips for How to Drive in the Snow Safely

1. Take It Slow: Speed is your enemy when driving on snow or ice. Reduce your speed to maintain control of the vehicle. Generally, you want to be going at least 10-20 km/h slower than the speed limit. 
2. Increase Your Following Distance: Give yourself plenty of room to stop in case the vehicle in front of you suddenly brakes.
3. Avoid Sudden Movements: Don't slam on the brakes or make sharp turns. Sudden actions can cause your vehicle to slide on the snow.
4. Use Your Lights: Turn on your headlights even during the daytime to increase your visibility to other drivers. This is essential for driving in the snow safely. 
5. Keep Windows Clear: Make sure your windows and mirrors are fully defrosted and clear of snow before you start your journey.
6. Check Your Tyres: Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have plenty of tread. Consider using snow tyres if you live in a heavy snowfall area.
7. Stay Calm: If your vehicle starts to skid, remember to stay calm, ease off the accelerator, and steer in the direction you want to go. And remember, turning the wheel and braking in the snow require a gentle touch – think of it like petting a kitten, not wrestling a crocodile.
8. Plan Your Journey: Check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Avoid driving in the snow if you can.
9. Equip Your Car: Keep essential supplies in your car like a snow shovel, ice scraper, blanket, and a bag of sand or kitty litter for extra traction if you get stuck.
10. Use Chains When Necessary: If the conditions are really tough, use snow chains on your tyres for better traction. Remember to remove them once you hit clear pavement though!

Remember, safety is the number one priority when driving in adverse weather conditions. 

Make sure you're comfortable with the conditions and prepared for any eventuality. If the conditions are too severe, it's always better to wait them out.

A Closer Look at Vehicle Types: Harnessing Your Horsepower

Whether you're behind the wheel of an all-wheel-drive (AWD), a mighty 4x4, or a two-wheel-drive vehicle, knowing how to drive in the snow safely with your specific type is crucial. 

Each vehicle handles differently in snowy conditions, so understanding these differences and using them to your advantage can significantly enhance your safety on the road.

Snow Chains: Your Secret Weapon

Think of snow chains as snowshoes for your car. They provide extra grip when conditions get really icy. 

But knowing when to use snow chains is as important as knowing how to put them on. Typically, you should use them when you're driving on packed snow or ice and the road hasn't been cleared.

Identifying and Navigating Hazards: Snow and Ice

Driving on snow and icy roads is like playing a game of "I Spy." It's all about spotting hazards early enough to react. 

This could be patches of black ice, snow-covered lines, or even other drivers struggling with the conditions.

When it comes to how to drive in the snow safely, first and foremost, it’s essential to identify and anticipate hazards before you hit the road. 

Paying attention to weather reports, road signs, and warnings from local authorities can provide valuable information about the conditions ahead. 

While driving, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, reducing speed, and avoiding sudden manoeuvres can help prevent skidding or losing control. 

As mentioned, using winter tyres or tyre chains, as well as activating the vehicle's traction control system, can greatly improve grip on icy roads.

Being prepared with emergency supplies, such as a shovel, an ice scraper, and sand or kitty litter for added traction, is also a great idea. 

By being proactive and alert, you can effectively navigate the hazards of snow and ice and reach your destination safely.

The Worst Times to Drive in Snow and How to Plan

When it comes to driving in the snow, some times of the day are worse than others.

Early mornings and late nights are particularly troublesome, as these times are when temperatures drop the most. If you can, try to schedule your drives to avoid these times.

Final Tips for How to Drive in the Snow Safely

Navigating through a snowfall might seem daunting, but with a few simple techniques and precautions, you know exactly how to drive in the snow safely. 

Always remember the key points: take it slow, stay alert, and plan ahead. And hey, don't forget to enjoy the beautiful snowy view as you go—just not too much; keep those eyes on the road!

Looking to brush up on your driving skills or prepare for your driving test? At EzLicence, we offer you access to over 900 verified driving instructors across Australia. 

With 24/7 online booking and rescheduling, as well as the option to change your instructor at any time, learning to drive has never been easier. Book your driving lesson now.