Winter weather can pose a challenge while on the road, and especially for new drivers. Between limited visibility from the snow and icy conditions on the road, it’s important to prepare and practice defensive driving techniques. Below are three key tips for safe driving during the winter months. 

3 Key Tips for Safe Winter Driving

1. Prepare for Winter Weather

Your best weapon against winter’s unpredictable conditions is to be prepared. First and foremost, you’ll want to switch from all-weather tires to winter ones. Winter tires are designed with softer rubber that can better grip the road in icy conditions. This is also the time to make sure your car fluids are replenished, such as windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze. It’s also wise to keep an ice scraper, shovel, and flashlight handy in your trunk in case of inclement weather.

2. Practice Braking Safely

Even with the world’s best preparation, you may still get stuck in unsafe driving conditions, such as slick, snowy roads. For this reason, you’ll want to practice safe braking techniques. Driving in the snow and ice is quite different than cruising around on a dry day because your wheels will have a tougher time gripping the road to brake.

When caught in this situation, new drivers will often panic and slam on the brakes, causing their cars to skid or completely spin out. Instead, you’ll want to practice braking gently before you normally would. This defensive driving technique will give your car time to reach a stop so you can avoid collisions.

3. Follow Existing Tire Tracks

If you find yourself in the middle of a snowy road, your best bet is to follow the existing tire tracks from the cars in front of you. Steering your car into these pre-existing grooves will help your tires more easily meet the road and help prevent fishtailing. This will also help keep you in your driving lane so that you can avoid potential accidents due to drifting. 

If you’re ready to practice defensive driving techniques during the winter and throughout the year, turn to Morgan School of Driving in Rochester, NY. Since 1943, this reputable driving school has helped over 400,000 students acquire the vital driving skills and licensing they need to pass a road test safely. Their knowledgeable instructors offer private driving lessons as well as the convenience of a home pickup service. For more information about their classes or to enroll, give them a call today at (585) 425-2410 or visit them online.