Winter Driving

Snow and ice can make stopping distances many times longer than on dry pavement, and even a careful driver can lose control. The safest winter trip is the one you postpone. When you do drive, slow down, leave lots of space and be smooth with every control.

• All drivers
• Work vehicles

Get the car ready

• Tires with good tread; consider winter tires where snow is common
• Battery tested (cold weakens batteries)
• Winter wiper blades and freeze-resistant washer fluid
• Heater and defroster working
• Antifreeze at the right level
• Gas tank kept at least half full
• Winter emergency kit in the car. See Car Emergency Kit

Before you go

• Clear all snow and ice: windows, mirrors, lights, roof and hood. Snow sliding off the roof can blind you or the driver behind you, and many states fine drivers for it.
• Check road conditions and the forecast. Tell someone your route on long trips.
• Never warm up a car in a closed garage. See Carbon Monoxide in Vehicles.

Driving on snow and ice

• Slow down. Posted speed limits are for dry roads.
• Increase following distance to 8 to 10 seconds.
• Accelerate, brake and steer gently.
• Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads.
• Watch for black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses and shaded spots.
• Don’t stop going up a hill if you can avoid it; build a little momentum before the hill.
• Give snowplows lots of room, and never pass them on the right.

Braking

• With anti-lock brakes (ABS): press firmly and hold. The pedal will pulse and buzz; that’s normal. Steer around the hazard.
• Without ABS: brake gently; if the wheels lock, ease off and reapply.

If you skid

1. Ease off the gas and don’t slam the brakes.
2. Look and steer where you want the car to go.
3. Be ready to steer back as the car straightens out.

If you get stuck or stranded

Stay with your car, keep the tailpipe clear of snow, and run the engine only about 10 minutes an hour for heat. See Winter Storms and Cold Stress.

Last updated: October 1, 2026