When winter rears its head for the first time of the season, we always have to have that little adjustment period in our minds where we eventually compensate for driving in the presence of ice, sleet and snow. The best way to stay safe under these hazardous conditions is to constantly remember to adhere to these winter driving skills.

Granted there are many driving assistance systems to help out such as all-wheel drive and traction control, but at the end of the day it is the driver that is the difference between arriving home after work and ending up in the hospital or morgue. We should all take the time to remember these basic tips about winter driving:

Visibility:
The first step to avoiding trouble on the road is to be sure you can see it coming. Make sure that snow has been completely removed from all of your windows as well as mirrors. Scraping off all ice and snow on your front and rear lights is also a must.

Pay attention to road conditions:
Knowing what sort of conditions you will be facing on your drive is already half the battle won. Be aware that changing lanes can be risky, as snow and ice can accumulate between lanes from frequent driving. Crossing these can upset the balance of the car, so be prepared.

Keep your distance:
When driving in traffic, timing can be everything. Leave more space in between you and the driver in front of you to compensate for driving on slippery conditions. Try to keep more than the two-second rule’s worth of space ahead of you. This also goes for behind you. Use your mirrors frequently and know what’s happening all around your car. If you’re being tailgated, let the other vehicle by.

Anticipation is everything:
Although many of these tips can be applied to driving in all seasons, anticipation is probably one of the best driving skills to keep polished. In winter, accelerating, braking and taking corners requires extra attention. You could slide and skid at any time.

Keep your eyes open for all potential road hazards, and allow plenty of time for approaching stop signs, and be conservative about crossing yellow lights. Often times you might be driving responsibly, but other drivers will forget about these winter driving tips so be on the lookout for others losing control.

Watch your speed:
Generally speaking in the winter, drive a little slow. This is a no-brainer. This will give you extra time to anticipate and react. Realize that your lane changes will take longer so leave appropriate time and space for this. Avoid sharp turns wherever possible.

Be on the watch for black ice:
Black ice is one of the greatest hazards on the road in winter. It can be extremely difficult to spot, and often times you will not know it is there until you’re slipping and losing control. Remember that bridges and highway overpasses are common places for black ice.

If you think you have spotted black ice ahead, ease up on the gas pedal, properly align the car with your lane and your slipping momentum will carry you forwards as opposed to sliding laterally.

Before you face winter driving:
Do whatever possible to decrease the chances of getting in an accident when winter driving. Put on winter tires well ahead of heavy snowfall. Test your brakes a little when you get in your car so you know what type of conditions you will be facing. If your car happens to have a manual transmission, try using 2nd gear to start when on slippery surfaces. if your car has winter-friendly driving features, remember to turn them on.

Driving in the winter requires an adjustment. Just be sure to follow these basic tips and stay alert when on the road and driving with snow and ice does not have to be a horrific experience. If you doubt the safety of your vehicle in any way, consider getting rid of your used car for a newer and safer model. Should you decide to get rid of your used vehicle, consider donating your car to charity.