Any tips on driving during snowstorm?

by Roch Drives on November 4, 2006

Oby S asked:


I will be driving from south lake tahoe to san francisco and there is a snowstorm scheduled to hit the road tomorrow (jan 4th). According to weather.com the snowstorm is going to be one of the strongest in many years so I’m a bit nervous. I do carry my tire chains but this will be my first time driving in snowstorm (I’ve driven during snow and heavy snow but not snow + strong wind) My car is a corolla. Any veteran drivers out there who can share tips ?

Denise

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{ 4 comments }

Roksana November 4, 2006 at 2:19 pm

brakes are useless if you hit a patch of ice. So if you slide on some ice keep in mind to pump the brakes instead of instinctively slamming them. Take it slow and steady.

johnny b good November 5, 2006 at 1:27 am

Roksana is correct as far as they go. It would be best if you can postpone your trip until the worst of the storm is over. Because, if anything happened, help would have a hard time getting to you. The wind can really blow in these storms, and you have a lite vehicle that would be easily blown off the road.

Nice one November 5, 2006 at 3:44 pm

1) I live in Midwest. DON’T PUMP Brakes if you have ABS!!!!!!!
You can render the brakes useless!
2) Know how to brake not how to drive. Most accidents are from stopping improperly rather than driving.
Emergency brakes are for donuts not snow!
3) Have emergency supplies & blankets & so forth, flashlight, so if the worst should happen you can stay warm till help can reach you. If there is an accident or a road is closed you should be ok. Better safe than sorry.
4) Have cash or credit handy just in case your stranded overnight.
5) Cell phone if you have or can get one.
6) Not all states allow chains or studs check ahead!
7) Have a set of jumper cables or a jump box in case power is needed. 8) Have your extra set of keys so you can leave your car running & locked if needed.
9) Check your oil before you go & make sure you have antifreeze! (antifreeze for windshield fluid too)
10) If you get stuck make sure tailpipe open so carbon doesn’t cause a prob or safety issue.
11) Mini shovel, sand or kitty litter for traction if needed under tires.
12) MP3 or itunes in case radio stinks or you want to distract yourself from bad drivers!
Hope this helps.

sandy43935 November 8, 2006 at 3:25 pm

Do you really have to go? You shouldn’t, if the snowstorm is going to be that bad. Can’t you wait a few days?

If you can’t, make sure you put plenty of weight in the back of your car, in the form of a couple of big bags of sand or cat litter for traction. Also have a portable shovel in case you get stuck, flares so people can find you, plenty of extra blankets and food and water in the car, plus your snow chains. Have heavy waterproof boots, an insulated snowsuit and snow gear and a flashlight in case you get stranded outside your car. Also have a way to set a fire for warmth. And keep your cell phone completely charged at all times.

But please, please, if you can wait, do. The crews don’t need to be out looking for someone who is traveling when it’s not an absolute emergency.