Driving in the winter comes with many risks, but with some basic knowledge and practice you can stay safe. The more prepared you are for driving on snow-covered roads or in an ice storm, the more calm and confident you’ll feel. 

To help, here are some basic tips every driver should know about driving in the winter months.

How do you prepare for winter driving?

There are a few things you can do to prepare your car for winter weather conditions. In addition to regular maintenance, have your heating and cooling systems checked. 

Consider swapping your tires for winter tires with a deeper tread. Another great tip is to make sure to have wiper fluid rated for freezing temperatures.

What should you do when driving in the winter?

While general safe driving practices are always recommended, there are some specific tips for driving in snow, ice or other winter weather. Some important things to remember include:

• Increase your following distance to account for slippery roads.
• If you start to go into a skid, turn the steering wheel the same direction to regain control more quickly.
• Avoid stopping when driving uphill.

What is the 3-second rule?

The 3-second rule is a best practice for maintaining a safe following distance in normal conditions. Keep 3 seconds worth of space between you and the car in front of you. However, during winter conditions, it’s recommended to increase that amount to 6-10 seconds.

Is freezing & ice slipping covered in an auto policy?

Most comprehensive coverage auto policies include damage related to weather conditions. One common example of this type of damage would be dents or broken windshield from frozen tree limbs falling onto your car.

However, if you get into an accident or damage somebody’s property because of skidding on ice, you’ll be considered at-fault for the accident. Check with your insurance provider for details about your particular policy before you drive on ice.

Winter-driving recap

Whether you’re relocating to a snowy climate or currently live in one, it’s important to remember snow and ice can make driving conditions unpredictable. 

With the added risk, it’s always best to be extra cautious when driving. Even if you’ve always resided in a region with cold weather and are used to driving in winter driving conditions, taking extra precautions can help you stay safe all season.