Driving on snowy, icy roads during a Nova Scotia winter is all but guaranteed. These days our winter weather seems to be characterized by all types of conditions – snow, ice, freezing rain, slush, rain and an occasional sunny day. Being well prepared for winter driving is just the smart thing to do.

One thing is certain; we can’t control the weather. And staying completely off the roads isn’t realistic. So, we’ve developed a list of winter driving tips for Bluenosers to help safely see you through the coldest season of the year.

1. Be Well Prepared for Winter Driving.

Being well prepared for the conditions is your best defence for winter driving. Taking a proactive approach will help you stay safe.

• Install winter tires. Tests have confirmed that winter tires provide better traction on cold and icy road surfaces. While other types of tires harden in cold temperatures, the rubber used in winter tires remains soft, providing vehicles with the traction required on winter roadways. We take a closer look at this topic in our blog, Do you really need winter tires?
• Travel with a fully charged phone. A cellphone can let friends and family know where you are and can be used to call for help. Avoid using the phone while driving; it is against the law and can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Pack a winter car survival kit. The kit should include a blanket, non-perishable foods such as energy bars, a small shovel, a blanket, jumper cables, flares and a flashlight. Drivers should also ensure they are dressed for winter conditions and have a heavy coat, gloves, a winter toque and proper winter footwear.
• Check the weather and road conditions before you head out. It is always wise to check the weather before heading out in the winter. Give yourself extra time. Time constraints can result in driver error when navigating slippery roads, resulting in a potential collision.

2. Clear your car of ice and snow.

Make sure your car is cleared off to ensure clear visibility from the driver’s seat. Brush off all the windows, the hood of your vehicle, and your taillights and headlights. Failing to clear the roof of snow may result in it falling onto your windshield when you decelerate.

Freezing weather conditions can result in ice build-up on your vehicle’s surface. Properly clearing off your car will improve your visibility, not obstructing other drivers’ views, and ensure your lights are well lit. Just in case these reasons aren’t enough, then maybe the fact that you’re breaking the law if you drive with snow and ice on your car will convince you.

3. Keep your distance; leave space.

You can not control what other drivers do.  When driving in slick road conditions, a significant hazard is other drivers who are inexperienced on snowy roads or don’t have the right tires installed. Slow down and drive to the conditions. Distance between vehicles is critical when driving on snowy roads as you need a reasonable amount of space and time to brake safely.

Often drivers can react poorly to slippery or icy road conditions. So, it makes sense to leave enough space to respond to sudden changes in traffic and be able to plan an escape route in the event of a skidding vehicle or sudden braking by other cars. If you find yourself behind a snowplow, keep an extra distance and pass them only when it is safe to do so.

4. Stay composed and learn how to handle a skid.

Skids can happen on slippery surfaces such as icy or snow-covered roads. If the car is skidding, steer it in the direction of the skid; steer towards where you want the car to go and do not over-correct. If you are on ice and skidding in a straight line, shift into neutral or step on the clutch. Avoid accelerating and braking when driving or when skidding.

Never slam on the brakes when it’s snowy or icy. If you need to stop quickly, pumping the brakes will help you stop faster without sliding. If your car has a modern braking system, you may have felt or heard its anti-lock braking system (ABS) engage, helping you stop in slippery conditions by rapidly pumping the brakes for you.

If your car has a standard transmission, downshifting through the gears can help slow your car down instead of the brakes. This comes in handy especially as you make your way down a hill. Just make sure you don’t feather the clutch as you release it, or you could initiate a skid.

Conclusion.

It is important to remember that accidents can happen to anyone, especially in wintery driving conditions. Needless to say, make sure you have the right car insurance to meet your needs. Our Bauld Insurance Advisors can review your car insurance policy to ensure you are well protected. We encourage you to visit our web page for more information and frequently asked questions on Car and Auto Insurance or to request a Car Insurance Quote.