How to Drive in Bad Weather Conditions

Drive slowly in bad weather conditions.

According to a 1997 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "with yearly increases in travel and no improvement over our current safety performance, fatalities and injuries could increase by 50 percent by 2020." Knowing how to navigate and maneuver your car in inclement weather conditions, such as snow, rain, high winds and fog, can help you avoid a dangerous ride. Driving safely and proactively in bad weather conditions is essential to keeping you safe behind the wheel.

Instructions

1. 

   Prepare your car for emergencies.

   Prepare your car with such necessities as kitty litter, wiper fluid, an emergency road kit, blankets, food and water, a snow shovel, ice scraper, a battery-operated radio and a fully charged cell phone. Check road conditions and alternative routes by watching the local news, listening to the radio or visiting relevant Internet sites, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation, for traffic and road closures.

2. 

   Maintain your tires to optimize performance.

   Check your wiper blades, battery, fluids and tire pressure. Make sure you have sufficient traction by using a tire tread depth gauge or even a penny. Place a penny on its edge in the grooves of the tires. If you cannot see Abe Lincoln's face, your tires have decent tread. If you can see Abe's face, it is time to purchase new tires.

3. 

   Seat belts save lives.

   Practice personal safety tips. Wear a seat belt, which reduces the risk of crash injuries by 50 percent, according to the National Safety Council. Keep your headlights on and your windshield clear. Leave at least three car lengths between you and other vehicles. Never slam on your brakes. Instead, brake gently to avoid locking up your wheels. Driving slowly will make it easier to stop the car.

4. 

   Wet road conditions can cause hydroplaning.

   Drive slowly when it starts to rain or snow, because the roads are much more slippery and dangerous as water washes away the oil from the pavement. Drive at least five to 10 miles under the posted speed limit during bad weather. Leave plenty of time when driving to your destination. Avoid unnecessary lane changing, tailgating or passing other vehicles in bad weather. When approaching intersections, do not assume it will be clear regardless of a green light or if you have the right of way. Keep a look out for other vehicles that may be out of control or unable to see you before making a turn.

5. 

   Drive slowly during winter conditions.

   Avoid sudden maneuvers to prevent your vehicle from losing control. Wet road conditions can cause hydroplaning, which entraps too much water between the road and your wheels. If your vehicle begins hydroplaning, avoid sudden reactions, such as braking. Instead, slowly release the accelerator and stay calm. If your vehicle does begin to slide out of control, steer it in the direction of the slide, and ease up on the accelerator.

Tips & Warnings

• If cars behind you are tailgating during bad weather conditions, pull over and let them pass.

• Having a front-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle is not a guarantee that it will handle icy roads.

• Avoid using cruise control if driving on icy roads.

• Stay alert, and refrain from talking on your cell phone while driving.

References

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: NHTSA 2020 Report/People Saving People
• National Safety Council: Seat Belts
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Checklist and Tips for Safe Winter Driving
• Safercar: Safe Driving Information
• Rubber Manufacturers Association: Tire Safety

Resources

• U.S. Department of Transportation