In a perfect world, all roads would be dry and vacant. But in the real world, drivers face a wide variety of weather conditions, and when snow is added to the mix, the potential for automotive disaster can increase exponentially.
Whether you spend six months of every year in snowy climates or venture to the ski slopes once in a blue moon, we’ve assembled a few crucial points to remember while braving snow-covered roads. Follow these tips, and you might even look forward to cold weather driving!
A vehicle can only do three things: accelerate, turn and brake.
Vehicles are far easier to control when those three actions are performed separately. When you’re approaching a sharp bend on a snowy road: first, slowly apply the brakes in advance of the turn. After releasing the brake, coast through the corner while turning the wheel. Only after you’ve exited the turn and straightened the steering wheel, slowly accelerate. As easy as that sounds intellectually, it’s really difficult for most people to put into practice.
You must always limit your speed, and think ahead
Excessive speed is the single biggest reason people lose control in the snow, and slowing down will give you enough adjustment room to correct your course in case your vehicle loses control. It takes approximately 4 to 10 times longer to stop your vehicle in ice and snow. Adjust your speed to the prevailing conditions. Also remember that going too slow can be just as dangerous as going too fast.
What to do if you start to slide
Don’t panic! A correct response will ensure that vehicle control is regained. When the vehicle oversteers (i.e., the rear end swings out), remove your foot off the accelerator and [this is the hardest thing for most drivers] turn the steering wheel in that same direction. You might be surprised; control of the vehicle will come back. If the car understeers (i.e. continues going straight forward when the steering wheel is turned), straightening the steering and gently touching the brakes will shift more weight over the front wheels and enable the tires to “bite” again. As with any winter driving maneuvers, using a gentle hand and not stabbing the gas, brake or steering wheel is the most effective way to recover from a slide.
Humans tend to target fixate. Couple that with the natural reflex to go where you’re looking, and it’s no wonder so many out-of-control vehicles head straight into curbs and lampposts. By training yourself to look where you want to go, your hands should follow your eyes and steer away from danger.
All accomplished race drivers swear by smoothness when it comes to driving technique, and that practice becomes even more important in wintry conditions.
All Drivers should know your limits and your vehicle’s limits
Becoming comfortable with your vehicle’s handling dynamics will prepare you for the unexpected. When the car starts to slide, does your vehicle understeer (plow forward), oversteer (fishtail) or drift sideways? The center of gravity, suspension and drivetrain configurations (like front-, rear- or all-wheel drive) affects how your vehicle reacts to certain conditions.
Electronic aids like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control have raised the level of vehicle safety, but icy conditions can render those features useless. Once a tire loses its mechanical grip on a slick surface, all the high-tech equipment in the world won’t stop that vehicle from spinning out of control. Honor the inescapable laws of physics by keeping your speed reasonable and maintaining a safe distance from cars and objects around you.
A reliably running vehicle can help avoid a bunch of nasty surprises in inclement weather. Check and adjust your tire pressure to compensate for the change in outside temperature and your vehicle will be easier to control. Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you.
This article is the intellectual property of Simmons BOSS CREATIONS. Any reuse of the contents must include the following attribution:
Marcus Simmons, ASE Certified
Simmons BOSS CREATIONS
Phone: (248) 461-6977
Email: ceo@simmonsbosscreations.com
http://www.simmonsbosscreations.com