As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, we’re inching closer to winter. Even in sunny Arizona, winter can have its unexpected moments on the road, and driving during this season still presents its set of challenges. Drivers might encounter slowed traffic, slippery stretches, frozen bridges, daunting hills, high-speed sections, sudden deceleration and acceleration zones, and the aftermath of fallen branches or power lines. Given that icy conditions result in 1,836 fatalities and 136,309 injuries each year in the US, it’s essential to stay alert. Here at JoyRide, we urge every driver to stay prepared, ensuring safer journeys for all.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter’s Icy Grip

When roads become slick with ice, it’s not just about how you drive—it’s also about what you drive. Making sure your vehicle is winter-ready is a paramount safety practice every driver should adopt. Here’s a quick checklist to prepare:

• Battery: Cold can drain its power. Ensure it’s fully charged.
• Brakes: Double-check their condition. Service if needed.
• Exhaust: Confirm there are no leaks.
• Wipers: Ensure blades are effective, and your reservoir has antifreeze solvent.
• Cooling System: Check the radiator, heater core, and antifreeze hoses for leaks.

Winter roads can be unpredictable, and it’s always best to be prepared for the unexpected. Always keep an emergency supplies kit in your vehicle with the following essentials:

• Jumper cables to revive a dead battery
• A small shovel for snow situations
• Ice scraper and brush for clear visibility
• Traction aids like a bag of sand or cat litter
• A flashlight with extra batteries
• A two-way radio for communication
• Flares or reflective triangles to signal for help
• A first aid kit for any minor injuries

For longer trips, pack extra blankets, food, water, and road maps. With these preparations, you’ll be ready for whatever winter throws your way.

Rear-Wheel vs. Front-Wheel Drive Vehicles

Winter driving presents unique challenges, and how you handle them can vary based on whether you drive a rear-wheel or front-wheel drive vehicle.

Rear-Wheel Drive:

• If skidding, resist the urge to brake. Instead, ease off the accelerator gently.
• Always steer in the direction your rear is skidding. If it skids to the right, steer right; if left, steer left.

Front-Wheel Drive:

• If you begin to skid, give a slight acceleration and direct your steering towards where you want to go.
• If you can’t accelerate, promptly shift to neutral.

The general key to winter driving, regardless of vehicle type, is maintaining a reduced speed. Slowing down ensures better control, so always stay cautious and alert on icy roads.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

Getting stranded during a winter storm can be a harrowing experience. If this happens, it’s vital to remain in your vehicle. Signal for assistance by tying a bright cloth to the antenna and raising the hood. To stay warm, run the engine and heater in short bursts, about 15 minutes every hour. However, avoid sleeping with the engine running. In especially cold conditions, continuously running the engine might be necessary, as restarting can become challenging.

For general winter travel, heed weather warnings and drive cautiously. Always have a cell phone ready for emergencies. Inform someone about your travel details, including departure time, route, and estimated arrival. Ensure your gas tank is full and regularly check local news for updates on road conditions.

Safety is paramount when navigating winter roads, so always stay prepared.