Winter is right around the corner, meaning it’s time for snow. Here in Colorado, the people are no stranger to strong winters. Many high schoolers will be on the roads this winter, many for the first time. Driving in snow is very different from driving on clear roads, and potentially much more dangerous. Road safety is very important, but even more so in the winter. Here are 5 procedures you should take to ensure that you’re safe on the roads this winter.
- Clear standing snow off of your vehicle.
Although it’s not required by law, you may still be pulled over, as snow flying off your car may be dangerous for the drivers around you. This can easily be combated with a snow brush, readily available at grocery stores.
- Give your vehicle time to warm up.
Giving yourself an extra five to ten minutes in the morning can help your car warm up, and allow you time to clear snow off of your car. This also gives time for your windshield to thaw out, giving you more visibility on the roads.
- Drive with caution.
It goes without saying that snow provides less traction than asphalt. Driving with caution means accelerating slowly, helping to prevent you from sliding on the road, and giving yourself more time to brake. If you’re in the event where you need to hit your brakes hard, you will feel a pulsating in your brake pedal. This is your vehicle’s Anti-Lock Brake feature, which prevents the car from skidding to a stop, providing more traction while braking. In the event where your vehicle begins to lose traction while accelerating, remove your foot from the pedal. Before you begin to accelerate again, ensure that it is no longer sliding. Accelerate slowly back up to traffic speeds.
- Give yourself extra time.
In winter weather conditions, you typically won’t be driving at high speeds. This means slower driving, and longer drives. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you need to rush to your destination, especially on slippery roads. It’s better to be late than to get in a car crash.
- Trust your intuition.
If you don’t feel safe driving in bad weather, there’s no shame in not doing so. It’s better to have missed a day of classes than to put yourself in an unsafe situation.
Driving in the winter can be dangerous, and it’s very important to be cautious when driving. Young drivers are typically at higher risk for being involved in an accident, but more so in the winter. The more informed students are on the issue, the safer we can make the roads.
