It is no surprise that driving in the winter is hazardous. The morning after a snowfall can be dangerous, due to slushy or icy pavement. Other drivers have a hard time controlling their cars, which can make one apprehensive to set out on the road. In the unfortunate event of a blizzard, it can be almost impossible to see where you are going, or where the road is.
Which poses the question: which weather condition is more hazardous for driving: slick roads due to ice or slush, or a blizzard?
Driving in a blizzard
One of the worst parts of driving during a blizzard is the lack of visibility. Nearly 40,000 accidents occur due to lack of visibility each year. When the snow is falling down too fast, whiteout conditions can completely decrease one’s ability to see cars and obstacles around them. Blizzards often come with heavy wind, which can be even more dangerous if the roads are slick, making it so that one is not able to maintain control of their vehicle.
It may be wise to avoid driving in blizzard conditions. If you must go out in a blizzard, driving slow may be key to being able to see around you.
Driving on slick roads
Driving on slippery surfaces cause a lot of problems for even the best, most in-control driver. Each year, over 115,000 crashes result in injury due to ice on the road. When the pavement is slick with ice or slush from partly melted/frozen snow, it is difficult for a vehicle’s tires to hold traction on the ground.
If you must drive on the ice, it may be helpful to follow these tips:
- Drive slowly
- Avoid accelerating and decelerating too fast
- Stay alert and aware of other drivers
Driving in the winter can be scary and dangerous, especially when you are dealing with blizzards and icy roads. However, it is not impossible. Knowing the hazards that you may face as well as knowing how to counteract them can make your life easier this winter.
