a woman driver smiling on a snowy road

Safety Tips for Driving on Ice and Snow

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Posted in Safety, Tips and Tricks

How to Drive Safely on Ice and Snow  

Driving in winter can be stressful, especially when roads are slick with ice and snow. We care about your safety year-round at Car Pros Kia Renton in Renton, WA. Please keep reading to learn how to drive safely on ice and snow. Our tips will help you stay in control and confident during extreme conditions.  

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6 Safety Tips for Driving in Icy Conditions  

Slow down and Increase Your Following Distance  

Speed is your biggest enemy on icy or snowy roads. Always drive slower than usual and allow extra time to stop. Braking takes much longer when roads are slick. Increasing your following distance to at least six seconds helps you avoid collisions if the car in front stops suddenly.  

Use Gentle Braking and Acceleration  

Sudden movements can cause your tires to lose traction on icy surfaces. Apply the brakes gently to avoid skidding. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the pedal firmly and let the system work for you. When accelerating, ease into it to prevent your wheels from spinning. 

Turn into Skids  

If your car starts to skid, don’t panic. Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can make the skid worse.  

a car's tire in snow
a close up of car's tire in snow

Keep Your Lights on and Clear  

Visibility matters in winter driving. Turn on your headlights to make yourself more visible to other drivers. Before heading out, clear all snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, and lights. This ensures you can see and be seen.  

Avoid Cruise Control  

Cruise control is helpful in normal conditions but dangerous on icy roads. If you lose traction, it can cause your car to accelerate unexpectedly. Always drive in complete control, using your judgment to adjust speed.  

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather  

Driving safely also means making sure your car is ready for winter. Cold weather can impact your tires, battery, and fluids. Schedule a service appointment at Car Pros Kia Renton to have your vehicle inspected and get it winter-ready.  

Read More: How to Drive Safely at Night 

Knowing how to drive safely on ice and snow helps you face winter with confidence. For more tips or to get your vehicle inspected, visit Car Pros Kia Renton in Renton, WA. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your car is ready for any weather conditions!