Tips for driving safely in the winter

Driving in winter conditions can be a challenge both for new and for experienced drivers. The main reason of course is the snow, ice and possible fogs which can make the road and driving conditions quite unpredictable.

If you are planning to use a rented vehicle in the winter, make sure that you choose one with traction control and with good winter tires, and also be prepared that the driving conditions could be unexpectedly tough.

The main tips for both experienced and unexperienced drivers for the winter are to be extra cautious, to drive at a slower speed and to remain alert of the surrounding vehicles and the road in order to remain in control of the car at all times. 

The first main concern for all drivers in winter conditions should be their own safety, as well as the safety of the passengers and all other drivers on the road. This is why, when contacting your rent-a-car service during the winter season, ask that the car is in a suitable condition for driving in winter settings. The car of your choice should have safe and reliable winter tires, in order to allow for better control while driving and stopping on the snowy or icy roads.

The car of your choice should also be properly serviced and filled with antifreeze and top up washer fluids. So, first of all make sure your car is ready and safe before heading off in tough conditions.

Remember, all drivers should be much more attentive when driving in winter, and to constantly observe the surrounding situation, and ensure that they drive at a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

Braking in winter conditions is particularly challenging due to the slippery, wet or icy roads. That is why drivers should keep a safe distance and avoid sudden braking. Remember that when driving in complicated weather conditions, you need to think about their possible stopping distance and often any snow, ice or slush on the road will cause the stopping distance to be longer due to low tire grip. This is why you should drive slowly and brake smoothly when driving in snow or rain. Stopping on a slippery road must be progressive and smooth, in order to avoid a dangerous wheel-lock, which in turn can cause unwanted sliding and slipping of the car. If this still happens to you, you must gradually release the brake and then gently press the brake repeatedly to resume the desired traction and braking.

If you lose traction of the rear wheels when driving a car with a front-wheel drive, you should accelerate in order to unlock the wheels, while for vehicles with rear-wheel drive, the brake should be released gradually, and then you should slowly accelerate in order to get the wheels working again on a slippery road.

When starting you vehicle in winter conditions, it is important to throttle very smoothly, and switch to a higher gear for better traction.

It is also good to know that in winter driving uphill could be done at a higher gear than on a dry road, in order to prevent unwanted slipping of the vehicle, which may lead to dangerous incidents.

When turning, you should drive slowly and evenly, and make sure you exercise control over the steering wheel, in order to maintain the straightforward movement and prevent unwanted and dangerous skidding the car.

In any case, when driving in winter conditions, you need to maintain maximum concentration and foresight, and to continually monitor other traffic, road conditions and the behavior of your vehicle, in order to prevent accidents and safely reach your desired destination.