Slippery Winter Roads Top Tips: Safely Navigate Snowy Journeys
Winter weather in Western Pomerania left drivers in a panic this week, with numerous close calls and accidents caused by slippery roads. As if that weren't enough, a bus took a dive, colliding with a tree, a fence, and a lamppost in Greifswald. However, the driver and passenger managed to escape unscathed, but the property damage is estimated at an astounding €370,000. Police urged drivers to be cautious, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and adhering to appropriate speeds during these wintry conditions.
Weather services predicted up to five centimeters of snow and temperatures between one and three degrees, while rain, sleet, and snow are expected to continue wreaking havoc and causing treacherous roads.
To sail through these slippery seas unscathed, keep these tips in mind:
- Tyre Tune-Up: Ensure your tyres are in tip-top shape and ready for the winter months. Tread depth matters—use the penny test: insert a penny in the tire tread with Lincoln's head down. If you can see the top of his head, your depth is too low. Aim for a minimum of six-thirty-seconds of an inch of space. Winter tires are also an option, with special rubber compounds and tread patterns that provide better grip on ice and snow.
- Steady as She Goes: Reduce your speed and maintain a safe following distance. Light acceleration and braking, and the incorporation of winter driving techniques such as low gears for inclines, will ensure a smooth ride.
- Informed and Aware: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and road conditions, using reliable sources like the German Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) or local news.
As winter provides new challenges, let's remember to remain vigilant, adapt our approach, and prioritize safety. Winter driving might be tough, but with the right mindset and preparation, we can tackle it head-on.
Enrichment Data
Ensuring safe winter driving experience requires a blend of proper vehicle maintenance, sound driving techniques, and up-to-date information on road conditions. Below are detailed tips for tire check-up, driving techniques, and staying informed:
Tire Check-Up
- Tread Depth:
- Utilize the penny test: Insert a penny with Lincoln's head down into the tire tread. Visible Lincoln's head is an indicator of low tread depth. Target minimum 6/32-inch tread depth for secure winter driving.[1][2][4]
- Consider winter tires: Engineered for cold temperatures, these tires boast special rubber compounds and improved grip patterns on snow and ice to permit greater traction.[1][4]
- Tire Pressure:
- Regularly monitor tire pressure, as cold temperatures can cause air to contract, lowering pressure. Consult your vehicle's manual for recommended tire pressure and check weekly during winter.[2][4]
- Damage and Cracks:
- Examine your tires for damage such as cracks, bulges, or sidewall damage. Suggested indicators of compromised tire structure and possible blowout risks.[2]
Driving Techniques
- Controlled Speed:
- Maintain a slow, steady pace to prevent unexpected turns or acceleration, as this improves traction and reduces skidding risks.[1]
- Expanded Following Distance:
- Increase your following distance significantly, which will allow for more time to stop and react in challenging weather.[3][5]
- Deliberate Braking:
- Apply moderate pressure when braking perfectly. Avoid sudden stops, since these can cause loss of control, especially on icy roads.[5]
- Proper Light Usage:
- Turn to low beams in bad weather to prevent blinding other drivers and to minimize glare from snow, rain, or fog. Consider angled fog lights for improved visibility.[1]
- Avoidance of Cruise Control:
- Never use cruise control on slippery or icy roads. Extreme vigilance is required to maintain control and ensure safety.[1][5]
- Optimal Steering:
- Skidding strategies: Remove pressure from the accelerator, maintain steering, and gradually regain control by guiding the wheel into the skid direction. Once control is regained, gently steer your course.[5]
Staying Informed
- Road Condition Updates:
- Monitor road conditions through trusted resources like the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) or local news updates. Access useful tools like snowky.ky.gov for priority route guides, tips, and highway district updates.[3]
- Weather Forecasts:
- Stay abreast of impending weather threatening road hazards. Alter your route choices accordingly to avoid treacherous conditions if possible.[3][5]
- Real-Time Updates:
- Utilize traffic updates from services like WAZE or TRIMARC to stay updated on current road conditions and alternative routes.[3]
