How to drive safely in a blizzard? Experts suggest doing so
A blizzard is expected to hit parts of Ontario and GTA from Wednesday night to Thursday, making driving conditions in Toronto slippery and dangerous. How to drive safely in snowy weather? Let's hear what advice experts have to offer.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has warned residents to avoid driving on the road as much as possible during the blizzard, especially to allow snow shovels to clear the road. If it's not necessary, we don't want people to go out in such harsh driving conditions, "OPP officer Kerry Schmidt said on social media.
Blizzard Driving Safety Guide
But if you have to drive in a blizzard, experts recommend taking the following measures to ensure the safety of yourself and your vehicle.
Nauren Raziq, Director of Communications and Coach at Toronto Globe Driving Academy, said, "Safe driving is not just about operating on the road, vehicle maintenance and preparation before driving are equally important.
How to prepare for driving in snowy weather?
Image source: OPP
Raziq emphasized that it is crucial to plan and understand the route in advance before departure. Check the weather and road conditions, use applications such as Google Maps to obtain the latest information, such as lane closures or traffic congestion, and adjust routes accordingly. If traveling far, be sure to check the 511 road condition report in advance.
You must know where you are going. If you spend a few minutes preparing before departure, you will be more at ease on the road
Before entering the vehicle, conduct a vehicle inspection to ensure that all functions are functioning properly.
Check the exterior of the vehicle for any damage or obstacles.
Check if the car fluids, such as engine oil, brake fluid, and windshield cleaning fluid, are sufficient.
Ensure that the car windows and rearview mirrors are clean and clear, without snow or frost obstructing the view.
Check tire pressure, cold weather may lower tire pressure.
Testing the battery, low temperature will reduce battery efficiency.
Ensure that the brake system and headlights are working properly, and fill the fuel tank to the brim for any emergencies.
In addition, Raziq recommends that car owners prepare emergency kits in the car, such as flashlights, blankets, food, water, spare batteries, etc., to cope with unexpected situations.
Is it necessary to use winter tires for driving in snowy weather?
Raziq strongly recommends using winter tires on snowy days. Winter tires have significantly better grip, handling, and braking performance on snow and ice than regular tires.
She warned, 'You can drive without winter tires, but this will increase the risk of collisions.'.
Ensure that the tires are not severely worn and still provide sufficient grip. There is a wear indicator mark on the tire. If the tread wear is close to or has already leveled with the indicator mark, it indicates that the tire grip is insufficient and should be replaced as soon as possible.
How to drive safely in snowy weather?
Slow down and travel, requiring a longer braking distance on wet and slippery roads. The braking distance on icy and snowy roads is at least twice that of dry roads, so a safe distance of at least 6-8 seconds should be maintained.
Pay attention to black ice, which looks like smooth new asphalt and is particularly prone to appearing in shaded areas and bridge decks. It should be avoided or passed with caution as much as possible.
Maintain smooth driving, whether it is turning, accelerating, or braking, it should be done smoothly to avoid sudden operations, otherwise it may cause the vehicle to slip.
Brake before turning to avoid slipping during the turning process.
Anti lock braking system (ABS): If the vehicle is equipped with an ABS system, continuously press the brake during emergency braking and do not release it until it comes to a complete stop.
Vehicles without ABS system: Apply the brake until it is about to lock and release it, then repeatedly apply the brake until the vehicle comes to a stop.
Image source: OPP
What if the vehicle slips?
Raziq said, 'When a vehicle starts to skid, many people panic, but panic only makes the situation worse.'.
Stay calm and prepare mentally in advance.
Do not press the brake hard, but slowly release the brake and accelerator.
Look in the direction you want to go and slowly turn the steering wheel in that direction.
Avoid unnecessary travel as much as possible under extreme weather conditions. If it is necessary to hit the road, following these safety recommendations can minimize the risk of accidents to the greatest extent possible.
Source link:
https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/planning-to-drive-in-the-snow-storm-heres-how-you-can-avoid-skidding-and-collisions/article_0e5e330a-e971-11ef-b671-cf1b49a3e8f0.html#tncms -source=login