5 Tips for Safe Driving in Snow and Ice

As a wave of snow and ice hits parts of France, driving becomes significantly more dangerous. For many drivers, venturing out on snow-covered or icy roads can cause real anxiety. Unfortunately, many are still required to drive despite the hazardous conditions. Here are five crucial tips to ensure safe driving during these challenging weather conditions.

1. Prepare Your Vehicle in Advance

Safety starts before you even hit the road. Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready by checking that your tires (snow or all-season) are in good condition, fluid levels (antifreeze, windshield washer fluid) are topped up, and the battery is fully charged. It’s also wise to carry an emergency kit, including a first-aid kit, blanket, flashlight, and small shovel.

For electric vehicle owners, it’s essential to monitor your battery’s charge. Cold weather can increase energy consumption by approximately 30%, so be sure to avoid unnecessary risks. You can also implement a few tricks to reduce energy consumption during harsh weather.

2. Drive Smoothly

Under snow and ice, a vehicle’s response is far less predictable. Reduce your speed and increase the following distance. Avoid sudden accelerations and hard braking. Instead, use engine braking and anticipate obstacles to minimize the need for abrupt stops.

A classic tip: if you drive a manual transmission vehicle, always shift to a higher gear to prevent skidding. Start in second gear and follow the usual gear sequence thereafter, even if it makes the car struggle a bit.

For electric vehicle owners, we recommend using eco mode, which provides smoother acceleration and helps reduce the chances of skidding.

3. Control Skids

Even with all the precautions, your car may still behave unpredictably. If you start to skid, stay calm. If your vehicle begins to slide, disengage the clutch and steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this could worsen the skid.

4. Stay Alert to Anticipate Hazards

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to remain aware of the road’s state and other drivers. Ice is more likely to form in shaded areas, on bridges, and viaducts. Adjust your driving according to the evolving conditions.

Minimize distractions as much as possible. If you find that the radio is taking your focus away, turn it off, at least temporarily, when you sense danger. Overall, drive slowly and keep a close eye on everything happening around you.

5. The Best Advice: Don't Drive If You Don't Have To

If the weather conditions are extremely bad, consider staying off the road entirely. No appointment or commitment is more important than your safety and the safety of other road users. In jobs where remote work is possible, employers have been encouraged to facilitate telecommuting as much as possible. For others, like those in construction or transportation, local authorities have advised against driving.

If you absolutely must drive, at least inform someone of your route and estimated arrival time. And as Americans say: "Drive safe!"