How to Drive Safely in Snow and Ice
The safest choice in severe winter weather is to delay the trip. If travel is necessary, clear the entire vehicle, slow down before traction changes, leave much more stopping room, make every steering and pedal input gentle, and never use cruise control on a slippery road.
What to check and why
Clear every window, mirror, light and the roof
Remove snow and ice before moving. Confirm the windshield washer and defroster work. Why: A small viewing hole hides traffic and pedestrians. Snow left on the roof can slide onto your windshield or another vehicle.
Check tires cold
Use the pressure on the driver-door label, inspect tread and damage, and use winter tires where conditions warrant. Why: Correct pressure and suitable tread help the tire produce the limited grip available on cold, wet or frozen pavement.
Plan the safer trip
Check the forecast and road conditions, tell someone your route, charge your phone and carry winter supplies. Why: Avoiding a dangerous road is more protective than trying to drive through it.
Turn off cruise control
Control speed yourself whenever roads may be wet, snowy or icy. Why: Cruise control may add power while traction is limited, making wheelspin harder to manage.
When to get professional help
- Tires have cracks, bulges, exposed cords or uneven wear
- Brakes pull, grind, pulse or trigger a warning
- Battery cranks slowly or needed a recent jump
- Defroster, lights or wipers cannot maintain visibility
If conditions become unsafe
If visibility or control becomes unsafe, leave the travel lane at the first safe location. If stranded, stay with the vehicle unless a safer occupied building is close, call for help, make the vehicle visible and keep the exhaust outlet clear before running the engine.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use cruise control in snow?
No. Keep direct control of the accelerator on snowy, icy or wet roads.
Does all-wheel drive help on ice?
It can help the vehicle accelerate, but it does not create extra tire grip for braking. Speed, following distance and tires still determine much of your safety margin.
What should I do if my car skids?
Ease off the accelerator, look toward your intended path and steer smoothly. Avoid abrupt braking and large steering corrections.