How to use car brakes wisely on winter?

How to use car brakes wisely on winter?

For drivers, winter is filled with snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain that can create hazardous road and driving conditions.

There is nothing more scary than having your car skid on snow or ice and you are left struggling to bring your car under control. Key to driving safely in winter weather is learning how to use your brakes effectively. 

Driving smoothly is the best way to safely to drive on snow and ice-covered roads. This means making no sudden movements like turning the steering wheel aggressively or some other action that might cause you to control of your vehicle.

When approaching an intersection or stop sign, slow down gradually. The less you have to hit your brakes; it reduces your risk of rear-ending a vehicle ahead of you or sliding through an intersection or stop sign.

Slamming on your brakes can immediately put you in a skid. If you feel like you’re getting into trouble, gradually let off the accelerator, doing this will help you regain control of the vehicle.

Don’t drive too fast for road and weather conditions. Driving too fast can cause you to skid or slide and lose control of your vehicle. Driving slower not only gives you more control of your car and it also gives you more time to react.

Don’t follow other cars too closely. On snow and ice, you need more time to come to a safe stop. You can achieve this by increasing the distance between you and other drivers. In winter weather, keep the time to six seconds betwwen the cars on the road.

Anti-lock brakes are one of the most important safety systems on your vehicle. ABS brakes are an advanced braking system that works with your regular brakes by automatically pumping them. To activate the ABS brakes, press firmly down on the brake pedal – don’t let up. You’ll notice some pulsating and possibly a growling sound – this is normal.