Comprehensive Winter Driving Safety Guide: Tips from NHTSA, AAA, and MoDOT

Winter Driving Safety: Essential Tips for Tires, Technology, and Emergency Preparedness

Driving in winter demands more than just skill—it requires preparation, the right equipment, and adaptive techniques to overcome icy roads and poor visibility. This guide covers everything from choosing the correct tires to mastering safe driving habits and emergency readiness to help you stay safe all season

Key Takeaways

• Use winter tires or chains for improved traction in snow and ice.
• Drive slower, increase following distance, and avoid cruise control on slippery roads.
• Understand ABS and other vehicle tech to maintain control during braking.
• Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof, before driving.
• Keep a winter emergency kit stocked and stay informed about weather and road conditions.
• Dress children correctly for car seat safety, avoiding bulky layers under harnesses.
• If stranded, stay inside your vehicle, keep the exhaust clear, and conserve fuel and battery power.

Table of Contents

• 1. Why Winter Driving Safety Matters
• 2. Vehicle Preparation and Tire Maintenance
• 3. Safe Driving Techniques for Winter
• 4. Understanding and Using Vehicle Technology
• 5. Child Passenger Safety in Winter
• 6. Winter Emergency Kit Essentials
• 7. Monitoring Weather and Road Conditions
• 8. Final Thoughts: Your Complete Winter Driving Checklist
• FAQ

1. Why Winter Driving Safety Matters

Winter driving conditions significantly raise the risk of accidents. In 2023 alone, over 320 fatal crashes and more than 22,000 injuries were linked to snow and sleet, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Hazardous roads, poor visibility, and human error combine to create dangerous driving environments.

However, with proper preparation and cautious driving habits, you can reduce your risk and protect everyone on the road. These safety measures aren't just precautions—they can save lives.

2. Vehicle Preparation and Tire Maintenance

Choosing the Right Tires: Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires

• Winter tires have softer rubber compounds and deeper tread patterns designed specifically for gripping snow and ice.
• All-season tires may work in mild winters but generally underperform in freezing, snowy conditions.
• Consider snow chains or studded tires for extreme environments, installed on all four wheels for optimal traction.
• Maintain correct tire pressure since cold weather causes it to drop—check your manufacturer's recommendations, often found inside the driver’s door.

Additional Vehicle Checkpoints Before Winter Driving

• Battery: Cold weakens battery performance—get it tested early to avoid surprises.
• Coolant/antifreeze: Confirm proper levels and winter mixture ratios.
• Lights and wipers: Replace worn wipers; clear snow and ice off headlights, taillights, and mirrors.
• Defrosters and heater: Ensure HVAC systems keep windows clear and cabin warm.
• Brakes: Have brakes and ABS systems inspected for reliability.

Clear Snow, Protect Your Visibility

• Remove snow entirely from windshields, windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, and roofs.
• Snow sliding from your roof can impair your view or endanger other drivers.
• Keep a snow brush and ice scraper handy during the season.

A few minutes of clearing snow greatly improves safety and vehicle control.

3. Safe Driving Techniques for Winter

Slow Down and Allow More Following Distance

• Reduce speed below posted limits when driving on wet, snowy, or icy surfaces.
• Increase following distances to 5–6 seconds or more for added stopping time.
• Remember, stopping distances on ice can double—for example, you may need up to 80 meters to stop from 60 km/h instead of 45 meters.

Practice Smooth, Deliberate Driving

• Avoid quick acceleration, hard braking, or sudden steering changes that can cause skids.
• Brake early and gently before curves, then accelerate slowly after turning.
• Stay in your lane; avoid lane changes over snow buildup that could cause loss of traction.
• Do not use cruise control in winter conditions to keep full control.

Proper Braking Techniques

• With ABS: Press brakes firmly and steadily without pumping. ABS maintains control automatically.
• Without ABS: Use threshold braking—firm and consistent pressure without locking wheels.

How to Handle a Skid

• Stay calm and reduce speed before slippery areas.
• If skidding, steer gently in the direction the back of the vehicle is sliding.
• Avoid slamming brakes or overcorrecting steering.
• Practice skid control in safe areas to build confidence.

4. Understanding and Using Vehicle Technology

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

• ABS prevents wheel lock-up and lets you steer while braking hard.
• When ABS activates, maintain firm brake pressure—do not pump the brakes.
• Consult your owner’s manual to understand how ABS works on your vehicle.

Driver Assistance Features

• Traction control, stability control, and all-wheel drive assist with handling on slippery surfaces.
• These features support but do not replace cautious driving.
• Turn off cruise control manually on icy or snowy roads if not disabled automatically.

Boost Visibility with Better Lighting

• Use low-beam headlights during winter weather—even daytime—for improved visibility.
• Be alert for black ice, particularly on shaded roads and bridges—it looks wet but is extremely slippery.
• If visibility drops drastically, pull over safely and wait it out; never stop on roadsides where you may be unseen.

5. Child Passenger Safety in Winter

Dress Children for Safety, Not Bulk

• Avoid bulky, puffy coats under car seat harnesses—thick layers compress in crashes, lessening harness effectiveness.
• Dress children in thin layers, buckle harnesses snugly, and cover with blankets or jackets for warmth.
• Confirm proper installation and strap tightness regularly, especially when outerwear changes.
• Use trusted resources like NHTSA’s car seat guidelines for correct fitting.

6. Winter Emergency Kit Essentials

• First aid kit
• Non-perishable snacks and water
• Extra warm clothing: hats, gloves, socks
• Blankets or sleeping bag
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Reflective triangles, flares, or LED emergency lights
• Matches, lighter, candles for heat and signaling
• Small shovel for snow digging
• Traction aids: sand, kitty litter, or traction mats
• Jumper cables
• Basic tools and duct tape
• Medications and hygiene items
• Charged cellphone or portable battery pack

For electric vehicle drivers, cold weather reduces battery range. Charge fully or maintain at least half charge before trips.

If You Get Stranded

• Stay inside your vehicle for warmth and shelter.
• Clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Run the engine intermittently to conserve fuel.
• Use blankets for warmth and conserve battery power.
• Make your vehicle visible with hazard lights or bright cloth tied to antenna or door.
• Always inform someone of your trip plan and expected arrival time.

7. Monitoring Weather and Road Conditions

• Check local weather forecasts and road conditions before driving.
• Use tools like the Missouri DOT road condition hotline and apps.
• Avoid nonessential travel during storms or advisories.
• Keep friends or family informed of your route, departure, and arrival.
• Give snow plows plenty of space—they have limited visibility and cannot stop quickly.

8. Final Thoughts: Your Complete Winter Driving Checklist

• Inspect and prep your vehicle’s tires, battery, lights, brakes, and defrosters.
• Use winter tires or chains in severe winter weather.
• Clear all snow and ice from your car before driving.
• Keep an updated emergency kit on hand.
• Drive below speed limits and increase following distance.
• Never use cruise control on slippery roads.
• Drive smoothly—accelerate, brake, and steer gently.
• Know how to operate ABS and stability control systems.
• Monitor weather and road reports continuously.
• Share your travel itinerary with someone dependable.
• If stranded, remain in your vehicle and use resources wisely.

Winter driving requires vigilance and preparation. Following these expert tips enhances your safety and the safety of all road users.

FAQ

Q: Are winter tires really necessary if I only drive occasionally in snow?

A: Yes. Winter tires are designed to remain flexible and grip better in cold temperatures and on ice or snow. Occasional snow driving can be hazardous with all-season tires, so winter tires improve safety significantly even for sporadic winter trips.

Q: How often should I check my tire pressure during winter?

A: Check tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips during winter. Cold temperatures cause pressure to drop, which affects traction and fuel efficiency.

Q: Can I use cruise control in snow or icy conditions?

A: It is strongly recommended to avoid using cruise control in slippery conditions. You need full control of acceleration and braking to respond quickly to changing traction.

Q: What should I do if I start to skid while driving?

A: Stay calm, ease off the accelerator, and gently steer in the direction the rear of your vehicle is sliding. Avoid slamming the brakes or overcorrecting your steering.

Q: How can I keep my child warm and safe in a car seat during winter?

A: Dress children in thin, warm layers and buckle them snugly in the car seat. Avoid bulky coats under harnesses, which compress in crashes and reduce effectiveness. Cover with blankets or jackets over the straps for warmth.