Winter driving can be a challenge

With snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain, driving in the winter calls for a different skillset. We all strive to be good drivers, but sometimes bad habits can creep into our driving routine. The effect of bad driving habits is often amplified in the winter – many times with disastrous results.

Read on to learn what bad driving habits you need to steer clear of – especially during the challenging winter driving season. Avoiding these bad habits will keep you safe and may help you avoid being involved in an accident.

Driving too fast

Just because the speed limit is 55mph doesn’t mean you have to drive 55mph. The speed limit is set for optimum weather conditions, and snow and ice-covered roads are definitely not optimum conditions. Always drive to the conditions of the road – slow down on snow and ice.

Remember, it may take longer to get to your destination in the winter, so be sure to add extra time to your schedule so you aren’t tempted to take chances and speed.

Tailgating

Maintaining a safe distance between the car ahead of you is always recommended, but in the winter it is paramount. Stopping on snow and ice takes longer than on dry pavement. If a car ahead of you makes a sudden stop, you need to give yourself time to react so you don’t end up hitting that car from behind.

In normal driving conditions, keep two seconds between and the car ahead of you; in the winter, bump it up to at least six seconds or more depending on the severity of the conditions.

Suddenly hitting the brakes

When you slam on your brakes while on snow and ice, you increase your odds of going into a skid or getting hit from behind by another vehicle. This goes hand-in-hand with slowing down and putting enough space between you and other cars. By doing these two things, you are less likely to be in a situation where you need to slam the brakes.

Not clearing off your car

Your schedule may be tight in the morning, but that is no excuse for driving with just a small part of your windshield cleared off. If your car is parked outside in the winter, you have to give yourself extra time to clear the windshield off and to brush the snow off your car. It isn’t safe to drive without a clear view of the road and blowing snow coming off your vehicle can be hazardous for other drivers.

Driving on the wrong tires

If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, switching to a winter tire can make a big difference. Snow tires are specifically designed for harsh winter weather and improve your traction on snowy roads. Sticking with the all-season tires you drove on all summer won’t give you the same performance.

Driving with damaged wipers

Winter can be hard on your windshield wipers. The combination of snow, ice and cold temperatures can cause your wipers to split and tear resulting in reduced performance. If your wipers get damaged, replace them immediately; you don’t want your view of the road to be compromised.

Not checking weather conditions

Take the time to check road and weather conditions before venturing out. From weather apps on your smartphone to websites like your State Police, it is easier than ever to see what the road conditions are like. Doing this will help you decide if it is better to postpone your trip until the conditions improve. The old adage holds true – “It is better to be safe than sorry.” Use common sense when deciding if you really need to make that trip to the grocery store during the height of a blizzard.

Neglecting to check tire pressure

Because cold temperatures can result in a loss of tire pressure, use a pressure gauge to check your tires often. For every 10°F the temperature drops, you can lose 1psi of pressure in your tires. Keeping a close eye on tire pressure is important because underinflated tires may not hold their shape, causing them to lose traction – which is something you definitely don’t want in the winter. Overinflated tires lead to a stiffer ride and are more susceptible to damage from potholes and other road debris.

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The content contained in this article is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.

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Bad Winter Driving Habits That Can Cost You