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Winter driving requires extra skill and caution, particularly when the road is blanketed in a fresh layer of snow. Driving habits that might be perfectly safe at other times of the year can greatly increase your risk of an accident during the colder months, leaving you in need of unexpected auto repair services. To make it through winter travel conditions comfortably and safely, keep the following tips in mind.

How to Drive in the Snow

1. Drive Slowly and Smoothly

The most important practice to adopt while driving in the snow is reducing your speed and avoiding any sudden, jerking turns or maneuvers. Even trusted winter tires can lose traction during a sudden acceleration or change of position, thus making it harder to control your vehicle and increasing your risk of an accident.

One of the best ways to travel at safe speeds is by selecting a lower gear when using a manual transmission. This will keep your engine at lower speeds without forcing you to rely on the brakes. If your car has an automatic transmission, accelerate and decelerate slowly to give the transmission time to adjust to the appropriate gear.

2. Pay Attention to Warning Lights

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Many modern cars, and all those built after 2012, come equipped with a stability control system. These computerized systems automatically compensate for reduced traction on slippery road surfaces.

If, while driving, you notice a blinking amber light on your dashboard depicting a vehicle outline with two S-shaped lines behind it, it means that the stability control system has detected a loss of traction. Ease off the accelerator when you see this light to allow your vehicle to regain its grip on the road.

3. Drive Safely Through Skids

When driving in snowy conditions, you may not be able to avoid skidding. Learning how to drive through a skid can make the difference between safely reaching your destination and requiring emergency auto repair services. If your front wheels are skidding, putting you into a wider arc than expected when turning, take your foot slowly off the accelerator to allow the wheels to regain traction and carefully direct your vehicle in the desired direction.

If your rear wheels are skidding and causing your vehicle to swing to one side, turn the steering wheel in the same direction, slowly ease off the gas pedal, and avoid depressing the brake pedal. Once the rear wheels regain their grip, adjust the steering wheel to return to your original course.

 

Whether you’re in need of a reliable new vehicle or professional auto repair services, you can count on the team at Crescent Ford for help. Located in High Point, NC, this trusted Ford® dealership has proudly served drivers throughout the Piedmont Triad for over 45 years. In addition to an extensive selection of the latest Ford cars and trucks, they maintain an experienced staff of auto repair specialists to help you quickly resolve mechanical issues and get safely back on the road. Visit them online to peruse a list of their services, or call (336) 869-2181 to speak with a member of their team.

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