How to Safely Navigate These 3 Winter Road Conditions
Photo: Nicole Yeary
If you live in the Midwest, you’re likely bracing yourself for another winter snow storm set to arrive this weekend. Maybe you love the snow…
Or maybe you’re watching the snowfall like this, already counting down till spring…
Whether or not you’re a fan of this season’s weather, the upcoming forecast is the perfect time to review some tips for driving safely through three common winter hazards.
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Black ice
Black ice is a thin coat of transparent ice that forms on asphalt. It can occur at 32 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. Though you can’t always avoid this hazard, there are some tips to spot black ice in the first place. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the places in the road where black ice tends to form and the conditions that can cause it. This video gives some great pointers.
Snow
Similar to ice, snow can significantly decrease tire traction on the road. An easy way to understand this is to think of your vehicle’s grip on the road in terms of “traction circles,” as this video illustrates.
Blizzard
=Photo: Jason Swihart
Even if you don’t live way up north in states like Maine or Alaska, whiteout conditions can still occur if there’s any chance of snowfall. Your best bet to staying safe in this condition is to avoid driving, if possible. But what if you have to drive? For starters, turn on your lights and drive cautiously. You’ll also want to refrain from switching lanes since other drivers might not be able to see your turn signal. Pull over to the side of the road, if you feel unsafe driving.
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