Driving in Snow Tips: With the exception of the Christmas Buffalo snowstorm in 2022, major Northeast cities have not had significant snowfall in over two years. However, this weekend’s nasty storm that is expected to affect the mid-Atlantic and Northeast might quickly alter that.
The local weather service station says that snow and sleet are probable in New York City on Saturday and Sunday, albeit it might not be a polar vortex. In addition, significant snowfall is predicted in Boston, D.C., Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other New England states.
Driving in the snow may be difficult, even for the most seasoned residents of the north. This is especially true if you haven’t driven in a few dry years.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reports that weather-related auto accidents claim more lives annually than other significant weather-related incidents like tornadoes, heat waves, hurricanes, lightning, or flooding.
Driving in Snow Tips
According to data collected between 2007 and 2016, inclement weather is a contributing factor in 1.2 million of the 5.8 automobile accidents that occur annually in the United States. 5,376 individuals die in these weather-related collisions on average every year.
Although it’s advisable to just stay away from travel when the weather is bad, most individuals don’t have the luxury of doing so in their daily life. The subsequent best thing? Make sure you are ready and that you know how to drive safely in the snow.
Storm Watch Indicates Potential Rain/Snow Mix on the Horizon in NYC This Weekend!
AAA’s winter driving advice
Following an interview with Bill Van Tassel, the manager of AAA’s driver training programmes and an instructor of driving teachers. He revealed some typical driving errors and discussed some of the science underlying the most worthwhile road trips.
Snow makes tyres less tractional. Be cautious when driving.
Tyres have significantly less grip on snow and ice than they do in dry circumstances, according to Van Tassel. This implies that the tyres may slide on top of the snow if the vehicle makes any abrupt movements, such as braking, turning, or accelerating. As a result, common sense collision avoidance precautions might not be available, and drivers should try to keep their distance from other vehicles.
Things to take care of
It’s wise to begin by believing that there are lethal hazards everywhere, according to Van Tassel. “You need to have a plan to deal with other road users taking actions that will put you at the highest risk, so assume that they will.”
To drive defensively in the snow, use these tips:
- Avoid travelling too fast.
- Leave plenty of room around the car.
- Rely on driver-assistance technologies only in an emergency.
- Aim far ahead
- Make use of fluid motions as you turn, brake, or accelerate.
- Steer clear of downhill driving
Van Tassel said that there are steps you may do to properly prepare for the trip if driving in the snow is required. First, he stressed that driving in the snow requires intense concentration and advised people to drive sober, rested, and without distractions.
Make sure that your automobile is prepared by doing the following:
- Tyres need to be properly inflated and have adequate tread.
- Check that every light and sensor functions.
- Clean all lights and sensors of snow and grime.
- Wipe all windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
When you travel, make sure your car is stocked with necessities that will save your life in the event of an emergency. For instance, if you were stranded in the snow, you may be able to free yourself with the correct equipment. Emergency supplies might help you live if you become caught until the snow clears and rescue personnel arrive:
- Sunglasses with polarisation.
- Water.
- Food.
- A charger for batteries.
- Oversized, warm apparel.
- Blankets
- Gloves.
- Explosions.
- Tools.
- Towels.
Van Tassel exclaimed, “If you have it and you don’t need it, fantastic.” “You might really need it if you don’t have it.”
