Snow and ice: 5 tips for safe driving

© Unsplash/Eilis Garvey

While many countries around the world easily adapt to difficult weather conditions, the rarity of these events in France tends to worry us. So, when snow and ice appear on our roads, getting behind the wheel can become a real anguish for drivers.

Unfortunately, many motorists are forced to travel by car despite this weather and the risks of driving on snowy or icy roads. To best support you, here are 5 tips for driving safely in snowy and icy weather.

Safety starts well before you hit the road. Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter: snow or all-season tires in good condition, fluid levels (antifreeze, antifreeze windshield washer fluid) checked, and a clean battery. Having a first aid kit, a blanket, a flashlight, and a small shovel can be useful in case of an emergency.

If you have an electric car, be sure to check the remaining battery percentage. Indeed, electricity consumption is approximately 30% higher in cold weather. So there is no point in taking risks. You can also apply some tips to reduce electricity consumption.

Under snow and ice, the vehicle's reactions are less predictable. Reduce your speed and increase the distance from the vehicle in front of you. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Instead, use the engine brake and anticipate obstacles to reduce the need to brake suddenly.

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Grandpa's tip: if you have a vehicle with a manual gearbox, always engage a higher gear to avoid skidding. Start in second and follow the order of shifting afterwards, even if it means making the car “graze” a little.

Owners of electric vehicles, we recommend that you use eco mode which allows for smoother acceleration and therefore limits the risk of skidding.

Despite all the advice to be careful, the car may behave in unexpected ways. If it skids, stay calm. If your vehicle begins to slide, disengage the clutch and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. Avoid braking suddenly, as this could make the skid worse.

Weather conditions can change rapidly. Stay alert to road conditions and other road users at all times. Shaded areas, bridges and overpasses are particularly prone to ice formation. Adapt your driving to changing conditions.

Limit distractions as much as possible. If your attention is distracted by the radio, for example, turn it off, at least occasionally when you sense danger. In general, drive slowly and keep an eye on everything happening in front of and behind you.

If weather conditions are extremely poor, consider not driving.No appointment or obligation is more important than your safety and that of other road users. In professions where it is possible, employers have been instructed to promote teleworking as much as possible. For others (construction or transport for example), prefects have given instructions not to take the road.

If you absolutely have to travel, at least take the time to inform someone of your itinerary and your expected arrival time. And as the Americans say: “drive safe&#8221 !

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