When the temperature drops in the Westwood, Dedham, and Norwood, Massachusetts, areas, it’s certain that snow is to follow. Driving confidently through snowy conditions becomes necessary when navigating winter in New England as you look to keep up with day-to-day travels.
Our team at Ira Mazda has compiled our best tips for driving in the snow, so you are prepared when snowfall comes.
Tip 1: Stay One Step Ahead of Your Vehicle
There are two ways to prepare before driving in the snow, the first being to prepare in advance if expecting snow. If the weatherman tells you to expect snow tomorrow morning, fill your tank and stock your vehicle with an ice scraper or shovel before heading to bed.
If you take windy backroads to work in the morning, look into taking a route that is straighter and flatter instead. If you have the time, do a quick run-through of that route before the snow starts to get familiar.
When it’s time to hit the road, prepare for the route ahead in advance. If heading towards a decline, gently apply your brake in advance. If headed towards an incline, gently press on your gas pedal in advance. By anticipating stops, hills, and turns in advance, you are in better control of your vehicle.
Tip 2: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Remember the story about the tortoise and the hare? A story about taking your time and staying patient, and how that can be accompanied by success. That is a great motto to follow when driving in the snow.
The most important technique to apply to your driving when taking on snowy roads is taking your time. By maintaining a slower speed, you have more control over your vehicle. When maintaining a slower-than-usual speed, you have time to react accordingly if you feel your vehicle sliding.
An important thing to remember is that while four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive can be helpful, you are ultimately the one in control of your vehicle. Trust yourself first when navigating snowy conditions.
Tip 3: Adjust Properly If Skidding
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The key to navigating the roads, if your vehicle starts sliding, is to react gently. If your front tires slide, slowly lift your foot off the gas. Allow your vehicle to adjust, and quickly you will notice you begin to gain control again. If your rear tires begin to slide and your vehicle starts to spin, quickly turn your wheel in the same direction you are sliding.
To give you a visual, put yourself behind the wheel. If your rear tires start to go right, turn your steering wheel right, and if your rear wheels start moving left, turn your steering wheel left. By reacting based on your rear tires, rather than the direction you are spinning, you are halting the motion in its track. Of course, remain gentle with the brakes and patient behind the wheel when reacting.
Tip 4: Prepare Your Ride for Winter Weather
There are ways to prepare your vehicle before snow falls. A great way to get ahead of winter conditions is by installing winter tires on your vehicle. Luckily, our service team is ready to assist you in getting your wheels winter ready.
Prepare Yourself for Driving in the Snow at Our Mazda Dealer!
Have any more questions about our tips for driving in the snow? Reach out to our Ira Mazda team and stay prepared for snowfall around Westwood, Dedham, and Norwood, MA.
