The winter storm Uri is hitting many states which means snow and ice. There’s a lot of drivers in hard-hit states who are not very familiar with driving in winter conditions (Texas and Oklahoma, for example).
I grew up in the Seattle area where many are not prepared to drive in the snow. Also, Seattle has a lot of hills so it can be a little more complicated. Here’s what driving in a typical Seattle snow storm looks like:
It’s really not complicated to drive in the snow and one should be prepared to do so in case you have an emergency and need to drive to the hospital or get supplies. Here’s some guidance from Les Schwab on how to drive in winter conditions. This brief video also offers some basics:
The biggest mistake I’ve seen drivers make in both Seattle and Oklahoma is slamming on their brakes. That’s a big no-no! Drivers also tend to drive too fast, tailgate and pull out suddenly in front of a driver.
While many prefer to stay home during winter conditions, it’s really a good time to practice driving. There are less cars on the roads and you can familiarize yourself (a big empty parking lot is a good place to go) with how your car – and you – react to winter driving conditions.
Mostly importantly, remain calm. If you know how best to react, you will feel secure in the fact that you’ll get to your destination without a fender bender.
Safe driving!
DCG