Winter Driving Survival Guide: Tips and Tricks for a safe journey

The winter season is fast approaching and as the winter season arrives, it brings along various challenges for the drivers. You need to be prepared for snow, ice, and reduced visibility on unfamiliar hazardous roads. For you to have a seamless experience during the winter months safely, we have gathered together some essential tips and tricks for you. Let's have a look at them and make our winter travelling safe and comfortable

Understanding winter road conditions

Winter driving is not just about low temperatures but what those temperatures do to the road conditions. Snow and ice provide slipperier surfaces that can make tires lose their grip. Knowing what all this means to your vehicle is the first step to safe winter driving. Cold weather may lead the tire pressure to drop, thus affecting tire handling. Visibility also gets reduced due to snowstorms and fog, which makes it even harder to identify the hazards. Considering the various issues which may arise during the winter season, it is essential to make yourself aware of the precautionary and remedial measures. 

Prepare your car for winter

The winter season is fast approaching, which raises the need of preparing your vehicle to bear the chilly winter. Let us have a look at some of the tips to be followed during the winter season so that you don’t have to be stuck on the road with your vehicle.

• Tires

Ensure that your tires are ready for the winter. In places where it snows much, make sure to get winter tires to be able to grip better.

• Battery

Cold weather will drain power from the battery. This will be taken for testing, proving it is strong enough for winter driving.

• Fluids

Use of winter-grade oil and check that the antifreeze level is sufficient so that you don't run on low. Don't forget the windshield washer, which has to be rated for freezing temperatures too.

Driving techniques for winter conditions

Now that your vehicle is in order, here is where you focus on your driving techniques:

• Slow down

Slowing down is key in winter. Roads are slippery; it takes longer to stop, so leave more room to stop.

• Smooth movements

Avoid stopping short, accelerating hard, or slamming on brakes or making any jerky turns. Make smooth accelerations and braking movements to keep traction. If you start to skid, steer into the skid to recover.

• Keep distance

Maintain a safe space between you and other vehicles. This will give you more time to react if someone suddenly brakes or skids.

What to Do in Case of Winter Emergency

Even if you are extremely careful while driving does not mean that you cannot meet with an emergency. Here is what you do if you ever end up in a winter driving crisis:

• Stay calm

Panic will only make things worse. Breath deeply and analyse the situation.

• Emergency kit

Carry an emergency kit in your car with items like blankets, a flashlight, snacks, and a first-aid kit. That might be your life preserver if you get stranded.

• Stay with your vehicle

If you ever get stuck, it is normally safer to stay inside your car until rescued. It provides you with an abode and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.

Also Read: KTM's Innovative AMT Technology: Revolutionizing Motorcycle Riding

Conclusion

Winter driving can be terrifying, but if prepared and equipped with the right techniques, you will be safe on the roads. Prepare your vehicle, change your driving habits, and prepare yourself for emergencies. Take these steps, and you are ready to enjoy a safe winter drive. Stay warm and safe!

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