How to stay safe when driving in snow (From Daily Echo)

How to stay safe when driving in snow

2:14pm Tuesday 5th January 2010 in

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The AA has issued these tips for driving in icy conditions and snow:

❆ Remember – stopping distances are ten times longer in ice and snow.

❆ Gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving.

❆ Wear comfortable, dry shoes – cumbersome, snow-covered boots will slip on the pedals.

❆ Select second gear when pulling away, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.

❆ Try to maintain a constant speed, choosing the most suitable gear in advance to avoid having to change down while climbing a hill.

❆ When driving downhill, choose third or fourth gear to prevent skidding.

❆ Always apply brakes gently. Release them and de-clutch if the car skids.

❆ If you have an automatic, then under normal driving conditions (motorways, etc) it is best to select “Drive” and let the gearbox do the work throughout the full gear range. In slippery, snowy conditions you can make driving much safer by selecting “2”, which limits the gear changes and also makes you less reliant on the brakes. Many modern autos have a “Winter” mode which locks out first gear to reduce the risk of wheel spin. Check the handbook if you are not sure.

❆ If you do get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip. Once on the move again, try not to stop until you reach firmer ground.