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10 tips for safe winter driving in Canada

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winter drivingWinter is here, and with it comes cold weather, rain and snow — in other words, bad driving conditions. The old saying “It’s better to be safe than sorry” certainly applies to winter driving.

Here are 10 tips to keep you safe and sound on the road this season.

 

1. Clear snow and ice from your vehicle

Before you start driving, make sure you clean all windows, mirrors, lights and even the roof. Wait for foggy windows to clear up so you can see properly through all sides of the vehicle.

2. Slow down

This might seem obvious, but people usually don’t slow down enough when driving in snowy, rainy or slippery conditions. Don’t let other people pressure you into going faster than you’re comfortable with. Stay in the right lane and let faster drivers pass you. And give yourself extra travel time so you’re not tempted to speed.

 

3. Leave more space between cars

In bad conditions, leave two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you. Black ice is nearly impossible to spot until it’s too late.

 

4. Learn to brake in an emergency

Let your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) do its job. ABS will allow you to steer your vehicle even while applying the brakes fully. For older cars without ABS brakes, it’s best to pump the brakes instead of letting your car skid, which gives you better steering control. If you have the choice, pick a car equipped with ABS, VSC (vehicle stability control) and traction control — these newer technologies make winter driving much safer.

 

5. Avoid skidding

How your vehicle responds to skidding depends on whether or not it has rear-wheel, front-wheel or four-wheel drive. Generally, the best way to keep from sliding and losing control is to slow down well before any turn — not during the turn. You can always speed up in the turn if you feel you’re going too slow.

 

6. Keep things smooth

When driving in snow, never jerk the steering wheel or slam on the brakes. Smooth driving will keep your vehicle on the road.

 

7. Be visible

Even during the daytime, use your headlights in bad conditions to ensure you’re seen. During a heavy snowfall, high beams may make visibility worse; if you have fog lights, use them in conjunction with your low beams.

 

8. Keep your gas tank full


A full gas tank adds extra weight to your vehicle, which can help slow it down.

 

9. Have your car winter ready

Make sure your car is ready for the conditions with good winter tires, brakes, a strong battery, good windshield wipers and clean fluids.

 

10. Keep a car winter kit

In case things go wrong and you find yourself stranded on the road, ensure you have a winter kit, which can include thermal blankets, first-aid kit, matches, road flares, booster cables, a snow brush, water and a charged cell phone. Having roadside assistance a phone call away is also a good idea.

 

 

 


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