Driving in snow and rain can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can stay safe on the roads. When the weather is bad, it’s easy to encounter slippery roads, reduced visibility, and other challenges like hydroplaning or black ice. These conditions can make driving more dangerous, but knowing how to react and how your car handles these situations is key to staying safe. Here are some essential tips to help you drive safely when the roads are wet, icy, or snowy.

1. Check Your Tires Regularly

Your tires are crucial when it comes to maintaining traction in slippery conditions. Properly inflated tires with the right tread can help prevent accidents caused by hydroplaning or skidding.

• Winter tires are specifically designed to provide a better grip on snow and ice. They help maintain traction on cold, wet roads.
• Ensure your tire pressure is correct. Cold temperatures can lower tire pressure, which reduces your tires' effectiveness in wet conditions. Under-inflated tires can increase the risk of hydroplaning.

2. Understand the Role of AWD and ABS

If your car has AWD (All-Wheel Drive) or ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), make sure you understand how these systems work. AWD can help with traction on snow-covered roads, while ABS helps you stop more safely in slippery conditions.

• ABS prevents your wheels from locking up when you brake hard, reducing the risk of a skid.
• Traction control helps prevent the wheels from spinning too quickly, providing smoother acceleration and better handling on slick roads.

3. Drive Slowly in Snow and Rain

When driving in snow or rain, it’s important to reduce your speed. Roads can be slippery, and stopping distances are longer than usual. In rain, hydroplaning can happen when your tires lose contact with the road surface and start to glide on a layer of water. This can be particularly dangerous at higher speeds.

• Keep a greater distance between your vehicle and others. This gives you more time to react if someone suddenly brakes or if you encounter black ice.

4. Use Your Headlights and Wipers Properly

Good visibility is essential when driving in fog, snow, or rain. Always make sure your headlights are on in bad weather so other drivers can see you clearly. This is especially important during fog or when there's heavy snow.

• Check your wipers regularly to ensure they’re working properly. You need them to clear away rain, snow, and frost from your windshield.
• Use your defrost setting to keep your windows clear of condensation or frost, especially in the morning.

5. Know When to Use Chains

In areas with heavy snowfall, chains can help you maintain traction on snowy or icy roads. Chains should be put on the tires of your vehicle to improve grip in deep snow, but they should only be used when necessary. Always check local laws and guidelines about when and where to use snow chains.

6. Watch for Black Ice

Black ice is one of the most dangerous road conditions during the winter. It’s a thin layer of ice that forms on the road, and it’s often invisible, especially when it’s dark or there’s a light dusting of snow. Black ice is most common in the early morning or late evening when temperatures drop, and it’s often found in shady areas, over bridges, and in spots where the road surface is uneven.

• Always drive with caution and keep an eye on the road for signs of ice. Avoid sudden movements, whether you’re braking or turning.

7. Be Prepared for Snowplows

In areas where snow is common, snowplows are often on the road clearing the snow. Always keep a safe distance from snowplows. They can throw up snow and ice, which could block your visibility. Never try to pass a snowplow unless it’s absolutely necessary and safe to do so.

8. Adjust Your Braking

Proper braking is crucial when driving in snow and rain. Braking suddenly can cause your car to lose traction, resulting in a skid.

• Use emergency braking only in situations where immediate stopping is necessary. Otherwise, brake slowly and gradually to prevent losing control of the vehicle.
• If you start to skid, avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, gently steer in the direction you want to go and wait for your car to regain traction.

9. Prepare for Road Conditions

In snow-prone areas, roads may be treated with road salt to melt ice and snow. This helps with traction, but it can also create a slushy, wet mess that makes driving more difficult. After driving in such conditions, it's important to wash your car to remove any salt buildup, which can cause rust over time.

• Keep your windows and mirrors clear at all times, and remember that fog can also reduce visibility in rainy or snowy weather.

10. Don’t Panic in Difficult Situations

If you do encounter a slippery or wet road, try not to panic. Remember that your car’s traction control, ABS, and other safety systems are designed to help keep you in control. Stay calm, adjust your speed to the conditions, and focus on steering smoothly without sudden movements.