Top 10 Winter Driving Tips for Your Next Road Trip

Winter conditions like snow and ice make driving more difficult, which is why you need to follow some tips to drive safely. No matter how confident you are with your driving skills, the winter season will always bring challenges in your way, which is why you need to keep the following in mind so that you do not endanger your own safety and the safety of others.

If you’re like me, and you live in a temperate climate, driving in the winter can be daunting for the first time before you get into the snow.

It takes a while to get your vehicle ready for winter driving and it can prevent you from becoming a statistic (this sounds like a script from red asphalt, doesn’t it?). But don’t worry, I’m not going to show you any poor photos to scare you directly. A little good information to keep you safe and stress-free when you start your journey.

1. Take fifteen minutes to observe the pre-trip. Check your antifreeze level, heater, defroster, and wipers. Keep weather wiper fluid in your car and scrape off the ice. Make sure your tires are inflated properly.

If you are renting a car, know where all the restrictions are so you don't have to turn the directional signal lever instead of the windshield wipers while driving in snow or rain. Yes, I did this. Most car rental agencies keep their vehicles in top-notch shape, but it never hurts to see if they miss anything.

2. Carry chains even if the guess is clear. Many parts of the country experience snow that we find unfair to the people of soft California. Keep your speed up to 25-30 miles depending on the local limit. Make sure you have snow tires that can handle winter elements like ice and snow because tires that have been specifically designed for winter conditions use a unique rubber that can withstand whatever the road throws it's the way.

Your. Your A.M. Leave the band on the radio, which you tune in to the local Highway Advisory radio station posted along the way. It will keep you close for a change in winter driving conditions. If anything becomes hairy, you can tug back and forth between your road trip music and any info updates. Or NOAA is thinking of investing in a weather radio that you can monitor a friend on the mountain tug seat while you ride the mountain trails in a white ship.

A. In the event of a breakdown or if you are snowing poorly and have little fuel to keep the motor running, pack some extra energy strips, clothing, water, and blankets.

Road. Alternative routes or GPS are at hand in case of the road closure. This happens all the time. Find your way and keep the gas tank full.

6. Slow down there, Hoss! You want to get through the storm as soon as possible. The locals may be running a skull over you. But resist the temptation to beat the storm and play the tortoise to his rabbit. They are either reckless or more experienced than you when it comes to winter driving. Do not measure yourself against others.

7. Get off your road trip early. Get as much light as possible. Winter driving can be tough enough in daylight. At night, it can be treacherous.

8. Pay attention to “black snow”, especially on road bridges and shady areas, even if it doesn’t look icy.

9. Keep a safe distance from other drivers as your stopping time is longer.

10. Even if it messes with your plans, don’t go beyond your limits or skill level. Drag into the rest of the area to wait for the hurricane or spend the night relaxing in a nearby residence. Half the fun of a road trip is unpredictable. You may meet some wonderful people or have a night out with your buddies. Trust me, your plans can wait one night if necessary.

The proper driving school will prepare you and teach you how to drive confidently so that you are comfortable driving in every season and in all kinds of different weather conditions. The Central Driving School in Edmonton offers a defensive driving course with appropriate lessons and training to help each student learn how to drive safely and carefully. Contact them today to find out more!