How to drive in snow and ice

Use the right tires, drive slowly, and be careful when starting on hills. And warm up the car before you go.

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safe winter driving

HOW TO DRIVE A CAR

Winter changes everything in the guide ofauto and the difference is made first of all by the snow which usually accompanies the ice, the pioggia, poor visibility. All factors that worsen driving conditions. And increase the risks of unnecessary reckless driving. Hence 5 golden rules, the essential ones that concern both car maintenance and driving itself.

HOW TO DRIVE IN THE SNOW

In scientific terms it is called “freezing“. That is, the phenomenon with which atmospheric physicists photograph the formation of a very thick and also resistant layer of ice: a red alert danger for the guide, as ice on the ground and car windows increases accidents. Sometimes fatal..

HOW TO DRIVE ON ICE

But the roads that become skating rinks are not the only element of risk in the guide during the winter. To the ice we must also add snow and rain, often sudden and torrential. All this means that during the most rigid winter cycle, and in particular during the "freezing" phenomenon, particular precautions must be taken in guide. Let's see which ones.

TIRES AND CHECKS FOR DRIVING IN SNOW

First of all, during the winter, replace the normal ones tyres with the winter ones, safer on wet and slippery pavements. Beyond tires for tackling INFO, ice and rain, it is advisable to check:

  • antifreeze in windshield washer fluid;
  • the operation of the windshield wipers and lights;
  • the condition of the chains to always carry with you in case of need when travelling in areas at risk of snowfall.

MODERATE SPEED IN CASE OF RAIN

Since the pioggia reduces visibility and makes the road slipperyasphalt, moderate your speed and, in case of slowdowns, act by reducing the pressure on the accelerator pedal rather than braking sharply. Also remember to Periodically check the proper functioning of the windshield wiper blades.

  • When driving in rain and snow, light the way as much as possible;
  • just look at the car in front of you and don't think about the entire line of cars;
  • don't brake as if the asphalt were clean and do not brake in case of skidding.

FOG LIGHTS

Since also the fog Not only does it reduce visibility, but it also makes the road slippery and reduces the grip of your tires on the asphalt. Reduce your speed, especially if visibility is less than 100 meters. Also, use your fog lights and taillights to make yourself visible.

HOW TO FIT CHAINS

In case of INFO keep in mind that braking times are extended, then assemble the chains, proceed at a moderate speed, avoid sudden braking and strong acceleration and maintain a safe distance. Remember that the chains must be assemble only when necessary and which, to be compliant, must bear the mark of conformity with EU regulations. Remove the chains as soon as the road is clear of snow to avoid wearing them out. Furthermore, when you start the car, gradually lift your foot off the clutch pedal to prevent the wheels from spinning: on cars with automatic transmission, however, set the winter driving mode.

If theauto should skid on a snowy road, avoid braking suddenly:

  • press the clutch
  • countersteering
  • if necessary, brake lightly.

Follow the same instructions in case of ice on the roads.

WARM UP THE CAR BEFORE LEAVING

Starting off can be quite tricky in snowy conditions. Always avoid driving uphill; it's tiring and dangerous. Before starting the engine, make sure you're comfortable, both in terms of clothing and the mobility of your hands and feet. And warm up the car thoroughly before setting off: it's the best way to drive calmly and without anxiety.

INCREASE THE SAFETY DISTANCE

In snow and ice, increase your safety distance from other cars ahead. This is for two reasons. Braking is less effective, and you need more space due to the reduced grip on the road. This protects you from the risk of rear-end collisions.

USE THE ENGINE BRAKE

When decelerating, before using the brake pedal, try to do so more gently by using engine braking. By downshifting, you can reduce your speed, avoiding the potential for skidding caused by ice and snow, which is associated with braking with the pedal. In any case, in snow and ice, it is always best to drive in low gears, especially when climbing hills. And when decelerating, the car must be straight: this operation cannot occur while turning or cornering. The same goes for the low gears: they should be inserted before the curve, and not after. 

DRIVING DOWN IN THE SNOW

Using the engine brake becomes essential when you're going downhill. In this phase, using the brake pedal risks skidding, ending up out of your lane, or disorienting and frightening those behind you. When going downhill in snow, we should never brake, and only use the gears to slow down. If you absolutely must use the brake, it's important to wait for a straight stretch, not a curve. 

AVOID THE TRACKS OF OTHER CARS

The tracks formed by other cars in front of you should not be taken into account when determining your route. They can be dangerous, as they make maneuvering more difficult, especially in an emergency.

HOW TO TRAVEL BY CAR SAFELY:

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