Driving tips for winter

Driving tips for winter

Driving in the winter can be harrowing, especially in snowstorms and icy conditions. By getting your car ready for winter and using some simple tips to drive safely, you can face almost any weather.

Here are a few practical tips that will keep your ride safe and pleasant in the winter.

• Prepare your winter driving kit. It should include tire chains, a bag of salt, a tow rope, an ice scraper, a snow shovel, a blanket, booster cables, and warning devices.
• Increase following distance to 8 to 10 seconds.
•  If possible, don't stop when going uphill.
• Drive slowly to minimize traction when driving on snow or ice.
• Apply the gas gradually to regain traction and avoid sliding.
• Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times.
• If visibility is severely limited due to a whiteout, pull off the road to a safe place and do not drive until conditions improve. Avoid pulling off onto the shoulder unless it is an absolute emergency. Limited visibility means other vehicles can’t see yours on the shoulder.