RSS
Home
It's gonna snow - can you handle it?
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Photo: Dan Roth/Autoblog
Here in New England, we're still recovering from an ice storm last week that destroyed lots of trees, caused widespread power outages, and generally wreaked cold havoc across our land. Now the forecast is holding the threat of at least two snow events in the next four days, which should make for delightful gridlock and plenty of treachery for drivers to deal with. The first snows of the season always make traffic go bananas, so what are you going to do to keep yourself safe?
I always fit my cars with a full set of winter tires, for one thing. All-season tires are a compromise, and they're not as safe in the snow and ice. My cars are get four winter tires, mounted on their own rims, which makes it an easy 30-minute swap. Winter tires are superior on ice and in snow, giving me an edge in maneuvering and stopping, two things that are far more important than getting moving, which even a decent set of all seasons can handle. Having a blanket and some water and non-perishable food in the vehicle may sound nutty, but it's a decent idea in case you wind up in a ditch for a couple days. A collapsible shovel in the trunk can make you the hero of the parking lot, and a good snow brush is essential, though the ice scrapers always stink. If you look very carefully, you can find ice scrapers with brass blades; insanely effective, but hard to find.
When driving, the key is smooth inputs, an awareness of your traction level, and planning ahead. Too often, ensconced in a comfy cabin with the seat heaters kickin', it's easy to forget that the going is mushy. Turn the radio down, even crack the window a bit, and always be aware of how much room you'll need if you have to do anything in a hurry. One of the best things you can do, by far, is practice snow driving, and learn how to regain control. DO NOT try this on the road, but hit an empty parking lot with a healthy coating of precip, and have at it. Once you learn what your car does, you'll be a better, safer, driver for it, and it can be darned fun.
Related Articles:
Add a Comment
