How to Get Out of a Driveway Without Plowing

The driveway is full of snow and there is that special snow barrier the plow left you at the end of the driveway. When there's no time to plow the driveway, a combination of luck and know-how can get your car out and get you on your way.

Instructions

1. Back your car into the garage. Plan ahead during the snowy season. You want to position your car in the garage so the drive wheels are facing the snow. If your vehicle is front-wheel drive, this requires backing in.

2. Warm up the car engine. With the garage door open, run your car until the engine is warm. All vehicles perform better when you allow them to warm up.

3. Accelerate without spinning the tires. As you accelerate toward the snow, your goal is to get up as much speed as possible before you reach the big mound at the end of the driveway. Press the accelerator slowly with firm pressure so that you don't spin your tires. Spinning the tires will just dig your car deeper into the snow.

4. Keep moving. Maintain your momentum even if the snow slows the car. As long as you're still moving, you have a chance of getting out.

5. Control your slide. Once you break through the mound of snow at the end of the driveway, release the accelerator and don't brake. Give your tires a chance to grip the road, use your steering wheel to establish lane position and then accelerate slowly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you get stuck, back up in the same tracks and try again.

• If you don't have a garage, park your car as close to the building as possible.

• If your vehicle isn't front-wheel drive, consider getting a front-wheel drive if you're going to continue living in an area that gets frequent snow storms.