Tips For Driving In The Snow

Winter driving can be daunting, especially in snowy and icy conditions. Whether you're navigating the rugged terrains of Colorado or cruising through the wintery landscapes of New Mexico, understanding how to drive safely in the snow and ice is essential for staying secure.

Schedule Your Visit

Essential Tips for Driving Safely in Snow and Ice

Prepare Your Vehicle

  • Winter Tires or Chains: Equip your car with winter tires or chains for better traction. Winter tires are made from softer rubber that stays pliable in cold temperatures, while chains provide extra grip in severe snow​.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Regularly check the battery, brakes, and fluids, as these can be more prone to issues in cold weather.
  • De-Ice and Defrost: Keep windshield wipers and the defroster in good condition. Clean off all ice and snow to ensure visibility.

    • Adjust Your Driving Style

  • Drive Slowly: Reducing speed gives you more time to react. Maintain a slower, steadier pace, especially when accelerating or braking​.
  • Increase Following Distance: Leave at least 6-8 seconds of space between you and the car in front. This provides enough room to stop safely on slippery roads.

    • Plan Your Route

  • Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out.
  • Avoid Hills and Inclines: If possible, avoid routes with steep hills or sharp turns where traction is more challenging to maintain.

    • Use Proper Braking Techniques

  • Anti-Lock Brakes: If your vehicle has ABS, press the brake pedal firmly and steer. Do not pump the brakes.
  • Non-ABS Brakes: If your car lacks ABS, gently pump the brakes to avoid locking the wheels.

    • Stay Visible

  • Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights in low visibility conditions to ensure other drivers can see you.
  • Clear Indicators: Keep lights, reflectors, and license plates clear of snow and dirt.

    •  

    Key Points to Remember When Driving in Snow

    Slow and Steady Wins the Race

  • Always drive slower than usual. Quick movements increase the risk of skidding.

    • Control the Steering Wheel

  • Use small, smooth steering inputs. Sudden turns can cause a loss of control.

    • Anticipate Stops

  • Begin braking earlier than usual, as stopping distances increase significantly on ice.

    • Avoid Using Cruise Control

  • Cruise control can cause the tires to lose grip. Always maintain manual control in icy conditions.

    • Monitor Your Tires

  • Ensure tires are properly inflated. Cold temperatures can lower tire pressure.

    • Stay in Your Lane

  • Stick to the middle lane, where snow tends to be less compacted.

    •  

    What to Do When Your Car Starts to Slide on Ice

    Stay Calm

  • Sudden panic can make the situation worse. Take a deep breath and focus on controlling the vehicle.

    • Steer Into the Slide

  • If the rear of your car slides out, gently turn the steering wheel in the direction of the slide. This helps regain traction​.

    • Avoid Sudden Braking

  • Braking too hard can lock the wheels, worsening the skid. Instead, ease off the accelerator and let the car slow naturally.

    • Don't Overcorrect

  • Once the vehicle stabilizes, straighten the steering wheel gradually to avoid a secondary spin.

    • Use Low Gears

  • Driving in lower gears reduces speed and increases control, especially downhill.


    •  


    Winter Driving Preparedness

    Build an Emergency Kit

    Pack an emergency kit in case you're stranded:

  • Blankets and warm clothing.
  • Flashlight with extra batteries.
  • Snacks and water.
  • Ice scraper and shovel.
  • First aid supplies and a phone charger.

    •  

    Understand Road Signs and Laws

  • Be familiar with signs that warn about icy conditions or snow chains.
  • Always comply with chain laws in areas like Colorado, which may be mandatory in certain weather.

    • Regular Maintenance Checks

    Visit Phil Long Dealerships for professional winter check-ups. Our team ensures your vehicle is ready to handle extreme conditions, from tire rotations to battery inspections.

    Wrapping Up

    Driving in snow and ice can be nerve-wracking, but with preparation and practice, you can handle winter roads confidently. Remember these key points and always stay cautious to avoid accidents. And if you're looking for a winter-ready vehicle or expert maintenance, Phil Long Dealerships in Colorado and New Mexico are ready to assist you.

    Stay safe and enjoy the beauty of winter landscapes responsibly!

    1. Phil Long Dealerships

      1212A Motor City Dr
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: (719) 387-5744
    2. Phil Long ValuCar Motor City

      150 W MOTOR WAY
      COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905

      • Sales: 7194530981
    3. Phil Long ValuCar MotorCity

      150 W Motor Way
      COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905

      • Sales: 719-575-7080
    4. Phil Long Ford of Chapel Hills

      1565 Auto Mall Loop
      Colorado Springs, CO 80920

      • Sales: 719-413-6467
    5. Phil Long Ford of Denver

      7887 West Tufts Avenue
      Denver, CO 80123

      • Sales: (720) 984-0683
    6. Phil Long Lincoln - Colorado Springs

      1114 Motor City Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 719-453-0782
    7. Phil Long Ford of Motor City

      1212 Motor City Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 855-349-0694
    8. Phil Long Ford of Raton

      223 S. 2nd St.
      Raton, NM 87740

      • Sales: 855-480-1013
    9. Daniels Long Chevrolet

      670 Automotive Dr
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: (719) 387-1081
    10. Phil Long Ford of Chapel Hills

      1565 Auto Mall Loop
      Colorado Springs, CO 80920

      • Sales: 855-343-4902
    11. Audi Colorado Springs

      550 Automotive Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 719-575-7830
    12. Phil Long Ford Denver

      7887 W TUFTS AVE
      LITTLETON, CO 80123

      • Sales: 8442311474
    13. Phil Long Ford of Denver

      7887 W Tufts Ave
      Denver, CO 80123

      • Sales: 720-894-0683
    14. Phil Long Ford of Motor City

      1212 Motor City Dr
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 888-395-3451
    15. Phil Long Ford Trinidad

      426 E MAIN ST
      TRINIDAD, CO 81082

      • Sales: 1111111111
    16. Phil Long Ford of Raton, NM

      223 S 2nd St
      Raton, NM 87740

      • Sales: (855)-480-1013
    17. Mercedes-Benz of Colorado Springs

      730 Automotive Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 855-349-2827
    18. Phil Long Hyundai of Chapel Hills

      1540 Auto Mall Loop
      Colorado Springs, CO 80920

      • Sales: (719) 722-2330
    19. Phil Long Toyota - Trinidad

      105 E Cedar St
      Trinidad, CO 81082

      • Sales: (855)-427-7806
    20. Phil Long Honda of Glenwood Springs

      51429 HIGHWAY 6
      Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

      • Sales: 970-665-3542
    21. Phil Long Lincoln of Colorado Springs

      1114 Motor City Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 719-300-4760
    22. Phil Long Glenwood Springs Subaru

      175 Storm King Road
      Glenwood Springs, CO 81601

      • Sales: 970-486-8642
    23. Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City

      170 W Motor Way
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: (719) 387-9977
    24. Phil Long ValuCar Academy

      175 N Academy Blvd
      Colorado Springs, CO 80909

      • Sales: (719)-284-9374
    25. Phil Long Kia of Colorado Springs

      1020 Motor City Drive
      Colorado Springs, CO 80905

      • Sales: 719-425-2247
    Loading Map...

    Get in Touch

    • Contact our Sales Department at: (719) 387-5744
    • Monday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM
    • Tuesday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM
    • Wednesday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM
    • Thursday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM
    • Friday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM
    • Saturday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM
    • SundayClosed