If there’s anyone in Canada who knows about snowy, icy, roads, it’s Albertans. Each winter, drivers in Edmonton are presented with challenging conditions and when it comes to new and less experienced drivers, a few winter driving tips are sure to help.
1.Three Point Check Before The Winter Months
Ensuring your vehicle is ready for the more challenging snowy and icy driving conditions ahead is a key component of safe winter driving. Be sure to check these 3 things on your vehicle before you hit the road this winter:
- Check your vehicle’s wiper blades to ensure they are streak-free and provide an unobstructed view of the road
- Have your brakes tested to ensure they provide firm braking capabilities
- Check your tire tread to ensure they are in good form. Pro Tip: insert a nickel in the tire tread. If you are able to see the top of the Queen’s crown, the tread is insufficient.
2. Slow And Steady Wins The Race
Expect to experience slower travel speeds, congested roadways and collision delays, especially with first snowfalls. Give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
3. Fuel Up
Rollin’ on empty? Think again. Keeping your gas tank at least half full will prevent gas line freeze-ups.
4. Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3
Not sure how a recent snow or rainfall has affected driving conditions? Before leaving your block, test your brake’s traction by braking suddenly. This will give you an idea of how your vehicle will handle. Of course, be sure to check that there are no vehicles behind you before suddenly braking.
Remember, accidents raise auto insurance rates so be mindful behind the wheel.
5. Danger Zone
Take note of higher risk driving segments such as highways, deceleration or braking zones (stop lights, steep hills, curves or bends in the road). Bridges are also danger zones as they can ice more quickly than roads due to cold air passing above and below the driving surface.
6. Best Case Scenario
Did you know that the speed limit is actually just that – a limit? Speed limits are simply meant as a guideline for ideal driving conditions. Roads that are compromised by rain, snow, ice or fog are best navigated with a reduced speed, especially the danger zones listed above.
