Driving in snow and ice is a high-risk activ- ity. Vision and traction are reduced while collision potential is increased. Postponing driving or driving as roads are cleared or sanded helps manage the risk, but sometimes drivers must face

the danger.

Vision

A driver’s ability to see is hindered on roads covered with snow. Sun and headlight glare decrease the ability to see well. You can optimize your ability to see and be seen with some simple actions. Make sure windows are clear and ice-free. Keep the car’s lights clean of grime and ice—good lighting allows you to see road markers and signs and lets other drivers see you sooner. Dim the lights on the dashboard.

Traction

Control of the vehicle is a major risk factor in snow and ice. Traction is best on fresh snow as opposed to packed snow. At 32 degrees the vehicle’s traction is reduced by half as water covers the ice. Sunrise, as the sun melts the ice, is extremely dangerous. Maximize traction by using recommended tire pressures and appropriate tire treads for snow and ice, as well as properly fitted tire chains. Review a car’s vehicle manual to use new technology in traction control. TCS, traction control systems, limit wheel spin by reducing engine power and individually applying brake pressure to each tire as needed. Deactivate the TCS if you are stuck in the snow and trying to rock the car free.

Vehicle

Prepare your car for driving in the snow. Visibility is enhanced with clean, working lights, defrosters, and windshield wiper blades. Don’t use cruise control in the slippery conditions. Keep the gas tank full. This adds more weight and better traction and lowers condensation in fuel lines, which can freeze overnight.

Reduce Risk

You can lower crash potential with some common-sense choices. Choose the appropriate time to travel and leave early, giving yourself plenty of time to drive at a safe speed. Increase your following distance from three seconds to six or eight seconds. Reduce your speed to half the maximum speed limit if snow is on the road. When driving in icy conditions, slow to a crawl. Make all speed and steering adjustments gradually by recognizing dangerous situations early. Bridges and over- passes freeze first, so ease off the accelerator early. Intersections have compacted snow melted by the heat of cars waiting at traffic controls.

Scan for black ice in mountainous areas.

Snow and ice create many challenges for drivers. Plan the trip by check- ing traffic reports. Prepare your vehicle for maximum visibility and trac- tion. Most importantly, adjust your speed and space creating a lower risk driving environment.