Tips for Driving in Adverse Weather Conditions

When the weather does not cooperate, follow these tips to ensure your safety on the road

Winter and snowstorms can turn roads into dangerous places to drive. With a little information and preparation you can ensure that your trip safer. The best way to face the bad weather while you're driving is following these tips and precautions:


  • Check the weather forecast for areas where you're going to drive, before reaching your destination. When you know what conditions you face, you can prepare mentally to handle during heavy rain or snowstorms. Think about your priorities. You should really handle in these conditions? Sometimes it is prudent to suspend the trip to avoid a dangerous situation.
  • Save blankets and coats in the trunk of your car at all times. A spare tire might seem more important during a snowstorm, but if you wait on the shoulder until help arrives during an accident, protect you from the cold will be a priority.
  • Keep your headlights on whenever you're in a situation of low visibility, even during the day. An easy way to remember this rule of security is getting used to turn on your headlights whenever you use the wipers. Remember light them during rain, snow and fog.
  • Turn on the radio in your car and find a station that keeps you aware about climate news, especially as you approach the storm. This will help you know whether you should continue driving or decide whether to stop until the weather improves.
  • Never use your phone or other equipment that can distract you from driving. If you drive while trying to make a call or use the GPS is a very bad idea, especially during bad weather. Before starting the car, program your GPS. If the phone rings, you can wait to park in a safe place to answer or return the call. Cell phone use while driving is illegal in many states and the National Safety Council (NSC, its acronym in English) estimated that cell phone use is responsible for more than a quarter of accidents in the United States each year.
  • If you are going to face the adverse weather, tell a friend or family before leaving home to your destination. A quick before call and then hit the trail takes a few seconds and could make the difference if something bad were to happen.

If you start to feel uncomfortable at the wheel, oríllate when it is safe. When you drive in bad weather you're not doing anyone a favor. Do not overestimate your abilities to drive in adverse conditions.
Take note of these tips, no matter how the weather is, and you will realize that your driving experience will be safer for you and those around you.