How to Get Your Car Out of a Ditch During a Blizzard
It can be a real struggle to free your car from a ditch in any conditions, let alone a blizzard. Gale-force winds, driving snow and freezing temperatures make the task much more difficult. The key is to create traction and not get flustered or impatient. Unearthing your car will take some time, but it can be done with some tips and a few household items.
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Instructions
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Shovel snow away from the area around your tires. If you have front or rear wheel drive, be sure those tires are especially clear. You want to create a space for the tires to grab the ground, creating traction and getting you out of the ditch.
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Rock your car back and forth. Put your car in reverse and slowly move it backwards as much as you can without causing your tires to spin. If they spin, you will only be more stuck. As soon as you have moved backwards, shift your car into low gear and progress forward as much as you can without spinning your tires. Continue moving back and forth to create more space for your car to move.
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Place an item that creates traction under your tires. Sand or kitty litter works best and can be stored in your car for moments when you are stuck. If you do not have either item available, cardboard or even the floor mats in your car can help create traction. Continue rocking the car back and forth with the traction item underneath your tires. The action of moving back and forth may give your car enough momentum to get out of the ditch and back on the road.
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Tips & Warnings
If the weather is dangerously severe, seek help from a reputable towing company.
Use extreme caution when driving in inclement weather.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
