3 Essential Tips for Safe Driving on Snow and Ice!…
In winter, as soon as temperatures drop below 0°C at night and in the morning, motorists are sometimes confronted with flash icy conditions. When it snows heavily, trees also become a hazard – due to the weight of the snow, they could in the worst case fall onto the road. But poor visibility can also be dangerous on the road. We explain what you need to watch out for as a motorist during the onset of winter, so that you arrive safely at your destination.
3 Essential Tips for Safe Driving on Snow and Ice!
Every year, the ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club:General German Automobile Club) publishes a recommendation on how to deal with difficult road conditions when winter arrives, and when it’s best to leave your car behind. The following rules must be observed to protect yourself and others on the road.
1. use the right tires
Make sure your car is equipped with winter tires in good working order. All-season and winter tires must have a tread depth of at least 4 mm. Never use your car in winter conditions with summer tires! Also, drive with as high a gear ratio as possible – this gives the tires better grip on the ground.
2. Driving in snow
When it snows, you should drive more slowly and keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. If the road ahead and behind you is clear, you can take a short brake test to check the braking distance. This can be five times longer on snow and ice!
Avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel. If the car still skids on the ground, steer quickly but sensitively, disengage the clutch and brake lightly. If this doesn’t work, the only solution is to brake hard, according to the ADAC.
Slippery road surface with tire marks.
3. driving on a slippery road
It’s precisely at the onset of winter that temperatures can vary, permanently altering road conditions. In the event of ice flashes, the car should always be abandoned. Wait for winter service before driving on slippery roads.
If you lose control of the car after a bend, brake lightly but steadily, and adjust the steering wheel slightly. Automatic cars should dispense with the “sport” setting when the road is slippery, as the gears are then shifted higher, which is not very useful on icy roads.
If you can avoid it, leave your car on snow and ice. If you absolutely must drive, follow ADAC’s advice to arrive safely at your destination. Have a safe trip!
