As winter sets in, icy roads, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures make driving a dangerous challenge for motorists everywhere. In the US, more than 70% of roads are located in regions that experience over five inches (13 cm) of snow annually, making winter driving particularly hazardous. Whether you’re in the US, the UK or Ireland winter conditions pose unique risks for all drivers. With the right preparation, you can handle the challenges of winter driving with confidence. As the saying goes, fail to prepare, prepare to fail.
What the stats tell us about driving in winter
Winter weather presents a range of hazards that make roads much more dangerous. Cold temperatures can reduce tire traction, ice can increase stopping distances, and poor visibility during snowstorms adds even more risk. But just how dangerous are these conditions?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in the US, winter weather contributes to over 500,000 crashes annually, resulting in more than 2,000 fatalities and over 100,000 injuries.
In the UK, around 21% of winter accidents are linked to poor road conditions such as snow, ice, and rain. November tends to see the highest number of accidents, often because drivers underestimate the challenges of early winter weather. Similarly, in Ireland, icy roads lead to a significant number of accidents, especially during December and January.
How can motorists maximise safety in winter driving conditions?
We’ve already highlighted the importance of daily vehicle checks, especially for HGVs and commercial vehicles. Although regular inspections are often overlooked, they are key to ensuring both safety and compliance. But vehicle maintenance isn’t just for professional drivers—it’s something every motorist needs to prioritize, especially in winter. Keeping your vehicle in good condition helps protect not just you, but all road users. Here’s how to keep your vehicle safe during the colder months.
Vehicle maintenance
Keeping your vehicle in top condition is the first step in staying safe on winter roads. Cold temperatures put extra strain on your car, so regular maintenance is essential.
- Winter tires: If you’re in an area that experiences snow or ice, winter tires are a must. They provide better traction and can help you stop faster. All-season tires simply aren’t sufficient for these conditions.
- Brakes and fluids: Ensure your brakes are functioning properly and check that your antifreeze levels are adequate to prevent your engine from freezing. Also, use winter windshield washer fluid to maintain visibility, as road salt and snow can quickly obstruct your view.
- Battery and lights: Cold weather can drain your battery. Make sure it’s charged and in good condition. Don’t forget to check all of your lights – visibility is crucial, especially in foggy or snowy conditions.
Prepare an emergency kit
Even well-maintained vehicles can have issues and break down. Having an emergency kit on hand can make all the difference if this occurs. Here’s some things to consider:
- A blanket, ice scraper, and small shovel to help clear snow around your tires
- Flashlight, extra warm clothing, and boots in case you get stranded
- Snacks, drinks, a phone charger, and a hazard warning triangle for assistance
- First-aid kit, jumper cables, and basic tools to handle any unexpected issues
Adjust your driving to winter conditions
How you drive in winter is just as important as vehicle preparation. Here are some tips to adjust your driving habits for the season:
- Slow down: Snow, ice, and slush make stopping distances longer. Reduce your speed and maintain a distance of at least 3-4 seconds for small commercial vehicles or 5-6 seconds for trucks. On ice, stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer than on dry roads. For trucks, this increases to 12 times.
- Avoid sudden moves: Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and sharp turns can lead to skidding. Drive smoothly – brake gently and accelerate slowly to avoid losing control.
- Watch out for black ice: Black ice forms on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. It’s nearly invisible, making it especially dangerous. Stay vigilant, particularly in the early mornings and evenings.
- Use low gears: Using lower gears in snow or ice can improve traction. This applies to manual cars, and many automatic vehicles also have a “winter” mode or gear setting for better control.
Extra considerations
For commercial fleet drivers managing larger vehicles, winter driving comes with additional challenges. Heavy vehicles are harder to control on slippery roads, and cargo can shift, making handling even more difficult. Here are extra tips for fleet drivers:
- Check your load: Ensure the load is evenly distributed and not overloaded, as this can make handling harder. Uneven cargo increases the risk of skidding or rolling over.
- Don’t overload: While it might be tempting to carry more weight for long-haul trips, heavier loads compromise braking and make it harder to maintain control in adverse weather.
- Rocking the vehicle: If you get stuck in snow, avoid spinning your wheels. Instead, gently rock the vehicle back and forth to free it, avoiding further entrenching yourself.
Stay informed and plan ahead
Before hitting the road, always check the weather forecast for your route. If snow, ice, or severe conditions are expected, consider delaying your trip. For fleet managers, using a fleet management system with real-time monitoring and weather alerts is a great way to stay ahead of any winter challenges. The more informed you are, the safer you’ll be on the road.
Trust your instincts and use common sense
Above all, the most important thing you can bring with you on winter journeys is common sense. If conditions are extreme and the roads are unsafe, don’t hesitate to delay or cancel your trip. It’s always better to err on the side of caution.
While modern vehicle safety systems like traction control, ABS brakes, and rearview cameras can help, nothing replaces being alert and using your judgment. It’s better to arrive a little later than to risk your safety and the safety of others.
Conclusion
Winter driving can be daunting, proper preparation is key to staying safe on these hazardous roads. Remember to maintain your vehicle, adjust your driving habits, and always keep an emergency kit on hand. Above all, trust your instincts – if the roads are too dangerous, it’s okay to stay put. Drive smart and stay safe this winter.
