These tips will help you drive safely through the snow
Although snow often causes problems, with the right preparation and driving technique, you can hit the road safely. Thanks to our tips, you'll brave the snow without any worries!
Equip your vehicle with winter tyres
Winter tyres offer more grip on slippery and snowy roads. Thanks to their special tread and rubber compound, they remain flexible at low temperatures, which is crucial for your safety.
Prepare your vehicle for departure
Before you leave, it is important to completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice. Snow on your roof can slide down while driving and impair your visibility, or even be dangerous for other road users. Make sure both your windows, mirrors and bonnet are completely free of ice and snow. Do you drive an EV? Then you can pre-heat your vehicle via the app while it is still connected to the charging station. That way your vehicle is nice and warm and you save battery power.
Keep enough distance
The braking distance on snow and ice is much longer than on dry roads. So always keep extra distance from the vehicle in front to brake safely. This gives you time to anticipate unexpected situations and helps avoid collisions.
Brake on the engine
In snow and black ice, it is better to brake on the engine as much as possible. By releasing the accelerator, the vehicle slows down without having to push the brakes hard, allowing you to maintain more control. This applies to both combustion engine vehicles and electric vehicles, which often use regenerative braking. Apply this technique on slippery roads to avoid skidding and save your brakes.
Don't accelerate too fast
Accelerating too fast on a snowy road can cause your tyres to lose grip and make you start skidding. Therefore, accelerate gradually and keep your speed under control, especially when pulling away and at junctions. This is even more true for powerful electric vehicles, which deliver their maximum torque instantly. If necessary, put your EV in ‘Eco’ mode to limit your power and accelerate better on slippery roads.
Watch out for a skid
If your vehicle starts to skid, it is important to stay calm and react appropriately. Is your rear wheel starting to slip? Then steer in the direction you want to go. If your vehicle turns sideways, counter-steer to regain control. Is your front wheel starting to slip? Just release the throttle and steer as little as possible. The most important thing is that your wheels keep spinning and don't lock up, as this makes skidding even more likely.
Use your driving assistance systems
Modern vehicles have several driving assistance systems that are extra useful in winter. Adaptive Cruise Control helps you maintain a safe distance, and Lane Assist ensures you stay neatly in your lane. In addition, Electronic Stability Control is a handy feature that helps keep your car stable when skidding. Take advantage of these technologies for a safer drive through the snow.
Don't panic, but anticipate
The key to safe driving in the snow is staying calm and thinking ahead. Anticipate what other road users may do and avoid sudden manoeuvres. Drive more calmly than usual and give yourself more time to brake, steer and react to changing conditions. By driving patiently and being prepared for unexpected situations, you minimise risks.
With these tips, you will be ready to drive safely through the snow. Fit your vehicle with the necessary winter equipment, adjust your driving behaviour, and enjoy the winter carefree. Drive safe!
