Seasonal Care

Safe Driving in Snow and Ice

Essential techniques for Canadian winter road conditions.

5 min read4 sections

1Speed and Distance

Reduce speed significantly—even with winter tires. Increase following distance to 6-8 seconds instead of the usual 3 seconds.

2Braking

Apply brakes gently and early. If you have ABS, press firmly and let it pulse—don't pump the brakes. If you don't have ABS, pump gently to avoid lock-up.

3Skid Recovery

If you start skidding, ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go. Don't slam the brakes—this makes skids worse.

4Hills

Build momentum before hills, then ease off near the top. Don't stop on hills if possible. If stuck, don't spin your tires—rock back and forth gently.

Key Takeaways

  • 1Slow down and increase following distance
  • 2Brake gently and early
  • 3Steer into skids, don't slam brakes
  • 4Maintain momentum on hills

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