While many countries around the world adapt easily to difficult weather conditions, the rarity of these events in France tends to worry us. So, when snow and ice appear on our roads, getting behind the wheel can become real anxiety for drivers.
Unfortunately, many motorists are forced to travel by car despite this weather and the risks of driving on snowy or icy roads. To support you as best as possible, here are 5 tips for driving safely in snowy and icy weather.
Prepare your vehicle well in advance
Safety starts long before you hit the road. Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter: snow or all-season tires in good condition, fluid levels (antifreeze, antifreeze washer fluid) checked, and a good battery. Having a first aid kit, blanket, flashlight, and small shovel can come in handy in an emergency.
If you have an electric car, remember to check the remaining battery percentage. Indeed, electricity consumption is approximately 30% higher in cold weather. So there is no point in taking risks. You can also apply some tips to reduce electricity consumption.
Drive gently
Under snow and ice, vehicle reactions are less predictable. Reduce your speed and increase the distance to the vehicle in front of you. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Instead, use engine braking and anticipate obstacles to reduce the need to brake suddenly.
Grandpa’s tip: If you have a vehicle with a manual transmission, always shift into higher gear to avoid slipping. Start in second gear and follow the shifting order thereafter, even if it means making the car “graze” a little.
Owners of electric vehicles, we recommend using eco mode which allows smoother acceleration and therefore limits the risk of slipping.
Master slippage
Despite all precautionary advice, the car may behave unexpectedly. If you slip, keep calm. If your vehicle begins to slide, disengage the clutch and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. Avoid braking suddenly, as this could make the skid worse.
Be more vigilant to better anticipate
Weather conditions can change quickly. Stay constantly alert to road conditions and other users. Shaded areas, bridges and viaducts are particularly conducive to the formation of ice. Adapt your driving to changing conditions.
Keep distractions to a minimum. If your attention is distracted by the radio for example, turn it off, at least occasionally when you sense danger. In general, drive slowly and keep an eye on everything happening in front and behind you.
Best advice: don’t drive
If the weather conditions are extremely bad, consider not taking the road. No appointment or obligation is more important than your safety and that of other road users. In professions where this is possible, employers have been instructed to encourage teleworking as much as possible. For others (building or transport for example), the prefects have given instructions not to take the road.
If you absolutely must travel, at least make sure to let someone know your route and expected arrival time. And as the Americans say: “drive safe”!
