Winter has arrived in the Maritimes! This season can make driving difficult at times, so we have compiled some winter driving tips that can help you when roads are slick with ice or snow:
Stay safe on the roads this winter and keep up to date on your local weather news. If it is advised not to travel, stay off the roads unless it is necessary. If you must travel, be cautious, slow down, and keep these winter driving tips in mind. 5 Reasons to Drive With Winter Tires | Meet The Team | Browse Inventory
1. Feel the Road
Get the feel of the road by starting out slowly and testing your steering control and braking ability. Avoid spinning your tires when you start by gently pressing your gas pedal until the car starts to roll. Start slowing down at least three times sooner than you normally would when turning or stopping.2. The Right Tires for winter driving
Equip your vehicle with snow tires to give yourself the best control in winter conditions. Remember that snow tires will slide on ice or packed snow so keep your distance.
3. Snow means slow: Stay Back
Reduce your speed to correspond with conditions. There is no such thing as a “safe” speed range at which you may drive on snow or ice. You must be extremely cautious until you are able to determine how much traction you can expect from your tires. Additionally, make sure to maintain a safe interval between you and the car ahead of you according to the conditions. Many needless rear-end crashes occur on icy streets because drivers forget to leave stopping space.4. Road conditions may vary
When stopping, avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and pump the brake gently. Avoid locking of brakes on glazed ice as it will cause a loss of steering and control. Every city block and every mile of highway may be different, depending upon the sun or shade and the surface of the roadway. Check your vehicle owner’s manual, if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes, you may apply steady pressure to the brake pedal.
5. Vehicle maintenance
Keep your vehicle in the best possible driving condition. The lights, tires, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, and radiator are especially important for winter driving.6. See Clearly
Keep your windows clear. Don’t start driving until the windows are defrosted and clean – even if you’re only going a short distance.
7. Black Ice
Watch for danger or slippery spots ahead. Ice may remain on bridges even though the rest of the road is clear. Snow and ice also stick longer in shaded areas, adjust your speed accordingly.
Stay safe on the roads this winter and keep up to date on your local weather news. If it is advised not to travel, stay off the roads unless it is necessary. If you must travel, be cautious, slow down, and keep these winter driving tips in mind. 5 Reasons to Drive With Winter Tires | Meet The Team | Browse Inventory