Did you know that a winter storm is expected to hit Saint Clair County tonight? If you have to travel, please make sure to give yourself enough time to get where you are going and to read this article for some helpful tips and tricks when it comes to driving in the snow and how to get your vehicle unstuck if you have the misfortune of getting stuck.
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE SNOW
1. MAKE SURE YOUR VEHICLE IS CLEAR OF ALL SNOW – VISIBILITY IS KEY. (CHECK EXHAUST PIPES)
Make sure to brush off ALL snow from your vehicle. Snow left on the roof of your vehicle can cause visibility issues as it blows off.
2. DON’T USE CRUISE CONTROL
During winter, road conditions can change in an instant. If your vehicle slips, it will accelerate and rapidly spin the wheels because it is trying to maintain a constant speed.
3. KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN FOR BLACK ICE
Black ice is hard to spot if the road looks wet…it’s probably black ice.
4. GO SLOW
It’s as simple as that, reduce your speed when driving in poor weather.
5. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Allow more distance between vehicles. This will make it easier to stop if needed.
6. DON’T STOP
If you don’t have to, don’t stop. It is easier to keep the vehicle moving than it is to get it moving when road surfaces are less than ideal.
7. POWER UP BEFORE GOING UPHILL AND DON’T STOP
It is difficult to get your vehicle uphill when there is little traction. Gaining power before reaching the hill will help get you to the top.
8. STAY HOME
If you can, postpone plans or stay home.
For More Tips, Watch this Video:
TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR VEHICLE UNSTUCK
1. DON’T SPIN THE WHEELS
When you are stuck and your tires are spinning, stop. Spinning the wheels will just make everything worse.
2. Gain Traction
Use kitty litter or floor mats to help your vehicle’s tires gain traction. You can also put tire chains on your vehicle to prevent getting stuck if you know you are heading into extreme winter conditions.
3. Shift To Low
Make sure your transmission is in the lowest gear, try to move forward until you feel the tires slip. Once you feel them slip shift in to reverse and try to leave the spot.
4. Turn off Traction Control
Slipping cuts the power to the wheels. You need power in the wheels to get unstuck. Turning off traction control will allow power to go to the wheels even when the tires are slipping.
5. “Rock It”
“The Classic Move” – either switch from forward to reverse, repeatedly and have the passengers in your car rock with the vehicle.
6. Call 911 or a Tow Service
Depending on the situation, call 911 (Emergencies) or a tow service to help you get the vehicle unstuck.
For More Tips Watch this Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gwym1xgl7Oo
https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/#.XcmUkjJKjfY
https://www.idrivesafely.com/driving-resources/how-to/drive-in-the-snow/
http://knowhow.napaonline.com/napa-know-notes-10-tips-get-car-unstuck/
Connect with us
