Driving in Snow and Ice

Driving in icy conditions

Snow-covered trees and icicles hanging off rooftops can be quite stunning, but icy roads can be dangerous to drive on if you’re unprepared.  

Whether traveling for the holidays or road-tripping a long-distance move, sometimes being on the road during winter weather is necessary. 

Check out these tips to be ready for whatever obstacles arise while traveling during the coldest season. 

Winter driving tips

Staying home is the safest course of action when weather conditions are less than ideal, but when travel is a must, there are things you can do to get ready.

1. Prepare the vehicle for cold weather

Make sure your car is in good working order and ready for cold weather. Visit a mechanic for a tune-up, or follow this car maintenance checklist. When temperatures drop below freezing, the car’s battery, fluid levels and tires need special attention.  

Also, make sure to start the trip with a full gas tank. Avoid letting fuel levels drop below half-full to prevent the lines from freezing and ensure there’s enough power to idle if you get stuck in traffic. 

2. Pack essential supplies

There are certain things you’ll need to have on hand in case of emergency. Along with copies of your insurance cards, vehicle registration and roadside assistance contact information, don’t forget to purchase an emergency kit or make your own with these items:  

• Blankets 
• Emergency flags for the vehicle 
• Extra clothing for all passengers, including reflective items 
• Flashlight 
• High-protein snacks 
• Ice scraper, snow brush and snow shovel 
• Jumper cables 
• Kitty litter or sand (for traction in case the car gets stuck in ice) 
• Tire chains (if required where you’re traveling) 
• Water 

3. Plan the route

Many people rely on GPS for directions, but cell phone coverage can get spotty when winter weather strikes. Print or screenshot the route and any alternatives before setting off for extra assurance in case of signal loss.  

Remember that GPS time estimates are based on ideal road conditions. Allow extra time to reach the destination since traveling can — and should — be much slower when there’s ice on the road.  

4. Know how to drive safely in snow 

If you’re new to driving in icy weather or just need a refresher, these tips will help with a safer trip. 

Accelerate and brake slowly

Any sudden movements on ice-covered streets can interfere with the tires' ability to grip the road. Accelerate slowly to reach a safe traveling speed (slower than the speed limit during these conditions) and allow extra time for braking to avoid skids. 

Avoid cruise control 

Cruise control keeps cars moving at a constant speed, and not all vehicles have intuitive systems that slow for traffic ahead. Wet or icy road conditions and cruise control don’t mix, so it's best to keep complete control of the vehicle. 

Be careful on hills and at intersections

Slopes and intersections can be challenging when there’s ice present. Try to avoid stopping on a hill since you could slide forward or backward. Approach intersections cautiously and allow the car to slow by removing your foot from the accelerator before gently applying the brake.

Stay visible

Keep your headlines on at all times to help others see you. Avoid traveling in another driver’s blind spots.

Travel at a safe distance

You’ll need more time to brake to prevent skidding on ice. Increase the distance between your car and other traffic to allow extra stopping space.

Understand skid recovery techniques

Knowing how to recover is critical to avoiding accidents in the event of a skid. 

• Front-wheel skid: Remove your foot from the accelerator and gently steer the car in the direction you want to travel. Avoid slamming on the brakes.  
• Rear-wheel skid: Remove your foot from the accelerator to help tires regain traction. If the skid continues, steer toward the skid to slow the vehicle. Once there is traction again, steer in your intended direction. Avoid slamming on the brakes. 

5. Stay calm and minimize distractions

Driving without distractions is always a good idea, but it’s vital during inclement weather.  

Stay aware of road conditions and avoid using a phone while driving. Have a passenger find radio stations for traffic and weather reports or make any GPS adjustments. If traveling alone, pull over in a safe location to use electronic devices or check maps. 

What to do after a winter-weather accident

Even with safety precautions, accidents can happen. If you’re involved in a car accident while driving in poor weather conditions, take extra precautions to avoid additional injuries.

Move the vehicle if possible

If your car is still drivable, move it off the roadway a safe distance and turn on the hazard lights.

Stay in the car if it’s disabled on the road

It’s generally safer to stay in a disabled vehicle on the road than to exit the car into traffic. Turn on the hazard lights to help other drivers see the vehicle. If there is no traffic approaching, and there is a safe place for you to stand while waiting for help, slowly exit the car. Stay warm and ensure that other drivers can see you by wearing reflective clothing or holding a flashlight. 

Call 911

Contact authorities immediately and report any injuries. Even minor fender benders during inclement weather can cause other more serious accidents. The police department will have ways to safely divert traffic and assist anyone involved. 

Exchange insurance information

Once the police are on the scene, provide insurance information to exchange with the other drivers involved in the accident (if any). 

Planning an out-of-state winter move?

If you’re moving over the holidays or during cold weather, U-Pack can help make the trip easier. With U-Pack, we’ll transport your belongings so you can travel safely with your family. No need to drive a bulky rental truck over snow and ice-covered roads! 

Get your free, no-obligation quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.  

If you have questions about moving with U-Pack or driving during winter weather, please let us know in the comments section.