Winter driving safety tips

While there is nothing quite like walking in a winter wonderland — driving is an entirely different story. Let’s brush up on your winter driving skills so you’re prepared when Mother Nature dusts the roadways with slippery snow.

8 winter driving safety tips

Don’t let winter get the best of you — follow these eight tips for winter driving to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

1. Prepare your car for winter

Even before the first flake falls, take some time to winterize your car. Buying winter tires can give you an edge with a better grip on the road. Then have your fluids topped for the season, inspect wiper blades and check the battery. Lastly, make sure you have ice and snow scrapers on hand along with some snow gear and blankets.

2. Clear the car

Give yourself ample time to clear snow and ice from your vehicle. Your visibility in inclement weather becomes even more important, so take time to clear windows and mirrors. Remove snow from reflectors and lights so others can see you coming, and don’t forget to sweep the snow off the roof of your vehicle.

3. Slow down

One of the best steps you can take to stay safe on slippery winter roads is to slow down. Even if you feel your vehicle can handle the road, the car in front of you may not be as prepared. Slower speeds are safer for all!

4. Stop early

Begin your stops sooner than you would on dry roads. Tires need a little extra leeway when there’s rain, snow and ice on winter roads.

5. Skip the cruise

Stay in control of your vehicle at all times by avoiding the cruise control entirely.

6. Be wary while on bridges

Even if the roads seem like they’re still pretty clear, bridges and overpasses tend to get icy first. Extra caution keeps you on your toes if ice is forming.

7. Stay defensive

While a good driver always drives defensively, this is even more important for safe winter driving. Keep alert and anticipate ice patches and sudden moves by other drivers.

8. Keep your phone charged and ready

While you never want to use your phone while driving, you do want to have it handy in case anything happens.

Prepare for winter driving with the right car coverage

Staying safe on the road starts with having the right car insurance coverage in place. Connect with your American Family Insurance agent to make sure you’ve got the right car insurance coverages to keep you safe from the unexpected. After all, a proactive approach is the best way to prepare.

This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. We do not make any guarantees or promise any results based on this information.

*Customers who bundle home and auto insurance policies may save up to 23% on both policies together (as of December 2023). Discounts may vary by state, property, policy form and company underwriting the home and/or auto policy. Discounts may not apply to all coverages on a home or auto policy.