Driving precautions on snowy days

I. Maintain good visibility

Driving visibility is crucial on snowy days. Keep the front windshield and rearview mirror clear. If the windows fog up, use the air conditioning to defog them.

II. Control speed, maintain a safe distance

When braking on icy and snowy roads, the braking distance will be significantly extended. While reducing speed on icy and snowy roads, drivers should also increase the safety distance from the vehicle in front to allow enough reaction time and prevent traffic accidents.

III. Correct use of lights

Visibility is low on snowy days, so pay attention to the correct use of lights. First, turn on fog lights and low beams to help the driver see the road ahead clearly. 

Second, turn on position lights and front and rear lights to signal the presence of your vehicle, allowing other vehicles to see your specific position and traffic conditions, facilitating appropriate measures by others.

The Dazu Plaza covered in snow [Photo/beijingetown.com.cn]

IV. Identify road conditions, avoid overtaking

It is advisable not to overtake on icy and snowy roads and to maintain a steady speed. During travel, avoid unnecessary lane changes to prevent collisions due to slippery roads.

V. Reduce speed in advance when encountering situations, avoid slamming the brakes

Due to the sharp decrease in friction coefficient on icy roads, slamming the brakes can put the vehicle in an unstable state, risking skidding or even overturning. 

Drivers should enhance their alertness. In emergencies, lightly tap the brakes, grip the steering wheel, and if necessary, decelerate by shifting down gears or using the handbrake to keep the vehicle under control.

The park blanketed in snow [Photo/beijingetown.com.cn]

VI. Start, turn, and go up or down hills slowly

In snowy weather, the road surface is slippery. When starting, do so slowly; when turning, turn the steering wheel slowly and brake gently to avoid sudden stops. 

Snowy weather increases the difficulty of driving on mountain roads and urban bridges with slopes. 

Use low gears for smooth passage on inclines and downhill. For drivers of manual transmission vehicles, it is not advisable to shift gears midway through. Prevent stalling on uphill slopes, and avoid coasting in neutral when going downhill.