Snow is falling and it’s starting to look like a winter wonderland outside, so we thought it was the perfect time to refresh you all on some winter driving tips! Driving in the snow can be stressful, scary, and overall not a good time. We do want to urge all readers to avoid travel if they can during snowstorms, however, we understand this isn’t always possible. So, if you have to hit the road during a winter storm, we’ve got you covered! Below you can find winter driving tips for snowy drives, long drives, and everyday drives! I know what you’re thinking, you are no stranger to the snow, but it never hurts to refresh your memory on the best practices for winter driving! And if you’re looking to start your search for a new Nissan, simply head over to our website to view our entire inventory and schedule a test drive today!

Tips For Driving In The Snow:

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for gaining traction and avoiding skids.
• Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
• The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds
• Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold braking.
• Don’t stop if you can avoid it.
• Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road.
• Make it know what kind of driving assistance you have (AAA, Roadside Assistance, etc.)

Everyday Driving Tips: 

• Avoid driving while you’re fatigued.
• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Make certain your tires are properly inflated.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
• If possible, avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy, and snowy weather.
• Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
• Always look and steer where you want to go.
• Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.

Long-Distance Driving Tips: 

• Watch Weather Reports
• Service your vehicle before hitting the road
• Keep at least half a tank at all times
• If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place a cloth at the top of a rolled-up window to signal distress, if needed.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice, or mud if you slide off the road