Even when the highways have been treated, driving on snow or ice is dangerous because of the reduced traction between the tires and the road. Breaking, especially, becomes more difficult, increasing your risk of car accidents. To keep your family safe and avoid the need for auto repairs, try implementing the following strategies.

How to Keep Your Car From Sliding When There’s Snow

1. Prepare Your Car

A vehicle is made up of hundreds of components working in tandem to facilitate motion. Make sure to have your brakes checked regularly as part of your normal auto maintenance routine to ensure that the pads and discs aren’t too worn down and can handle this weather. Also, switch out your current tires for winter ones. These are specially designed to improve traction in harsh conditions and will help slow the car to a stop when braking.

2. Keep Your Distance

Because of the loss of traction, your car will take longer than usual to come to a complete stop. That’s why experts recommend leaving at least eight seconds of distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. How can you tell you’re far back enough? Pick a fixed point ahead of the vehicle you’re following. Once they pass that point, count how long it takes you to do the same. If less than eight seconds have passed, slow down.

3. Drive Slower

Finally, whenever driving on snowy or icy roads, it’s always safer to drive slower than you normally would. This gives you more time to react if you need to brake suddenly; plus, it’s easier for the brakes to slow a vehicle that isn’t going so fast. Generally, you shouldn’t drive any faster than 45 miles per hour even if you are on the highway.

 

Need to get your car ready for winter? The experts at Kelly’s Auto Repair Inc. in Lincoln, NE, have spent more than 25 years providing local drivers with a variety of auto diagnostics and maintenance services, including brake work and engine repairs. Make sure your vehicle can handle the snow and ice by scheduling an appointment at (402) 467-4602. Read reviews from customers satisfied with their auto repairs on Facebook.