How to survive winter’s deadliest roads: Austria’s icy driving crisis
Winter driving brings serious risks, with hundreds of accidents on snow and ice each year. In Austria alone, 2024 saw 751 crashes causing 982 injuries and seven deaths. Many drivers struggle with slippery roads, often underestimating the dangers or lacking experience in harsh conditions.
Austria’s ÖAMTC warns that braking distances on snow can stretch to three or four times longer than on dry roads. Smooth steering, gentle braking, and gradual acceleration help prevent skids. If the car loses control, experts advise easing off the gas, disengaging the clutch, and steering toward the intended path while keeping eyes fixed ahead.
Certain regions pose even greater threats. Tyrol’s Brenner Autobahn A13 and Arlberg Pass, Styria’s southern areas, and Burgenland’s central and southern zones are particularly hazardous. Black ice forms when rain or freezing fog meets super-cooled surfaces, worsened by sudden temperature shifts and heavy snowfall. To stay safe, drivers should allow extra time for travel and fully clear snow from vehicles. Keeping a safe distance and avoiding overtaking on slippery roads is critical. Professional skid training courses are also recommended, offering practice in braking, cornering, and skid recovery on snow and ice.
Winter conditions demand preparation and caution. Longer braking distances, unpredictable ice, and sudden weather changes increase accident risks. By adjusting speed, maintaining distance, and practising in controlled settings, drivers can reduce the chances of collisions on treacherous roads.
