How to Prevent Fishtailing in Snow

Driving in winter weather can be dangerous. Between snow and ice the roads are very slick. In most cars a common occurrence can be fishtailing, where the back of the car spins to the side causing the driver to lose control. Use these steps to prevent your car from fishtailing the next time you must drive in the snow.

Instructions

1. Check your tires frequently during the winter particularly before winter weather hits. Make sure they're not bald and that they have enough air. You can purchase specific tires for the winter if you choose, but all-season tires work fine for driving in snow if you are careful.

2. Place something heavy in the trunk of your car or bed of your truck. Aim for around 50 to 100 pounds. Large bags of sand or salt are good options that are cheap and can be used later so it's not a waste of money. The extra weight helps to improve traction as your tires hit pavement each time.

3. Reduce your speed while driving in ice and snow. This way if you need to come to a quick stop you give yourself extra space in case you slide. Leave a larger distance between yourself and other cars as well.

4. Drive more cautiously than usual. Avoid jerking the steering wheel and instead change lanes or make turns gradually and smoothly. When you need to stop quickly depress the brake pedal gradually on cars without anti-lock brakes and put the car into a lower gear if you feel it begin to lock up. On cars with an anti-lock brake system (ABS) push the brake pedal all the way down and do not release it until you are fully stopped.

5. Back off the gas if you feel your car begin to slide and try to regain control of the vehicle. When this does not prevent the fishtail effect, gently steer the car out of it being aware of all cars and everything else around you so that you can minimize damage if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid driving in snow and ice when you can. Take a bus or work from home or take the day off if you are able.

• Make sure you know for sure if the car you are driving has ABS or not so that you know the appropriate action to take if you do begin to slide.