8 Tips for Safer Winter Driving in Columbus, Ohio

Winter in Columbus can be magical, but it can also create some treacherous road conditions. Byers Imports is here to help you drive safely through the icy, snowy roads with these excellent winter driving guidelines and tips.

Winter Driving Guidelines

Let’s start with some basic guidelines for winter driving. Experts recommend that drivers observe the following:

1)    Don’t Drive If You Don’t Have To

The best way to stay safe during winter driving conditions is to avoid driving if you do not need to. Unfortunately, hunkering down isn’t always an option, and if you do find yourself needing to drive on snowy, icy, or wet roads, we recommend making sure you and your vehicle are prepared to tackle safe winter driving.

2)    Check for Icy Mirrors

This is a pro tip that professional truck drivers observe during the winter season. If ice forms on your vehicle’s outside mirrors, there is likely going to be ice forming on roadways. Check your mirrors and take extra precautions or wait until it warms up and the ice melts to drive.

3)    Prioritize Vehicle Maintenance

Winter is not the time to skip over important vehicle maintenance. Drivers should regularly check their oil and antifreeze levels. We also recommend topping off your gas every time the tank reaches the halfway point to ensure you won’t get caught near empty when inclement weather hits.

4)    Check Your Tires

It is important to check the tread on your tires as worn tread can cause you to slip and slide on slushy or icy roads. If you do not have tires fit for winter, consider investing in all-season or snow tires for better traction. Beyond checking the tread, you should regularly check your tire pressure as it will drop during colder spells.

5)    Check Your Brakes

For your next oil change, you can request a brake check to ensure they are in good condition for winter. If you hear any squeaking or strange noises when you press the brake pedal, you should take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic immediately.

Beyond making sure your brakes work properly, you will need to use them properly. Practice slow, steady braking to retain control on slick roads and remember to ease off the accelerator and downshift before applying the brakes should you hit an icy patch. If you feel the brake pedal drop and hear grinding as the pedal pumps on its own, it is just your anti-lock brakes (ABS) kicking in. Remember to keep your foot firmly on the pedal and focus on steering.

6)    Clear Snow and Ice from Your Car

Give yourself extra time before your commute to clear any snow or ice from your vehicle. Thoroughly brush snow off the roof, hood, windows, mirrors, and trunk. Don’t leave it to your wipers to deal with the strain of brushing off heavy snow.

7)    Stock Emergency Supplies

Always be prepared for the worst. Make sure you stock your vehicle with important emergency supplies such as a blanket, first aid, flashlight, flare, jumper cables, ice scraper, shovel, snow chains, water, a phone charger, and other items you might need in case of trouble.

8)    Practice Defensive Driving

Preemptive vehicle maintenance and following the above tips will only get you so far. You need to practice defensive driving during the winter season, staying alert and engaged with your surroundings and other drivers on the road.

Follow these defensive driving strategies:

?      Slow Down – It is especially important in winter to take things slow as fast, jerky movements can cause you to slide and lose control of the vehicle. Just because trucks and other vehicles speed by, doesn’t mean you need to step on it. Find a speed you feel comfortable with while attempting to stay in the main flow of traffic. Remember to accelerate slowly, go slowly when changing lanes, and take turns slowly when driving on snow or ice.

?      Keep Your Distance – It can take much longer to come to a complete stop on ice, so we recommend drivers take enough time to properly respond in case the car in front suddenly stops or a crash occurs. Experts recommend increasing the two-second following distance to eight seconds on winter roads.

?      Listen to the Road – Tires make different sounds on snow and ice. Keep your radio volume down and pay attention to the sound of your tires on the road to keep on top of road conditions.

?      Watch Out for Bridges, Overpasses, and Ramps – These areas tend to freeze first and stay frozen longer, so remember to slow down and pay extra attention to the sound and feel of the road.

?      Minimize Distractions – While you should follow this rule during every season, it is especially important with wet, snowy, or icy roads. Keep your phone off or connected to Bluetooth and never take your eyes off the roads or your hands off the wheel to stay fully focused on the road ahead.

Winter Driving FAQ

What do you do if your car is sliding on ice?

Should you start to skid or slide on ice, focus on regaining control of the vehicle. Let off the gas and gently steer into the direction of the slide to stabilize the vehicle and prevent overcorrection or a car flip.

How do I use my headlights for winter driving?

Headlights should be on during winter conditions, even during the day. This keeps you visible to other vehicles when snow or storms hit. Limit the use of fog lights to foggy and low-visibility conditions. Remember to use your blinker to indicate upcoming turns.

Get Your Car Checked Before the Winter Season Hits

If you need any assistance with vehicle maintenance this winter, contact Byers Imports. Our trusted service technicians can provide a comprehensive check on your vehicle’s tires, brakes, and fluids to ensure everything runs smoothly to tackle winter conditions. Our dealership is conveniently located at 401 North Hamilton Road Columbus, OH 43213. We look forward to helping you stay safe with a reliable vehicle through every kind of weather!