How to be prepared for the worst winter driving conditions
From traction tricks to ABS advice, Paul Ripley explains how to stay safe when the whether turns bad
Weather conditions vary enormously and can change quickly in winter, with road conditions following suit, but an experienced driver rapidly identifies deteriorating circumstances and makes skilled adjustments to their driving as required, ensuring that safety prevails.
Over 95 per cent of road traffic incidents are caused by driver error, and such crashes only happen when a driver runs out of talent, space or time. The likelihood of any or all of these things happening is heightened in adverse conditions.
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Speed is the foremost safety-critical issue to consider. Indeed, ‘inappropriate use of speed’ is a significant contributory factor in many avoidable crashes. Anticipation, early hazard perception and smoothness with the controls are also essential when risk levels have been increased by the weather. Consider using the ‘Three Ss’ rule: Sure, Slow, Safe. This maxim reminds you to always drive at a speed where you can stop safely, within the distance you can see to be clear ahead. Also learn to develop a cocoon of safe space in front of you; this is how good drivers lower the number of risks they are exposed to.
Remember that traction loss never just happens – there is always a cause. In simple terms, the driver is doing something to make the tyres lose their grip. Driving too fast, late braking and harsh braking are prime examples. In spite of the traction support systems on modern cars, the laws of physics and risky driving behaviour (aka the law of stupidity) are always there waiting to catch the reckless driver off guard.
So what should someone who is aiming for the evo Standard be considering when they are driving in hazardous conditions?
- Matching speed to the conditions. This is a key safer-driving initiative in winter. Your overall safety is enhanced by slowing down.
- Aquaplaning. Look for standing surface water and slow down on approach if possible. When aquaplaning, braking or steering has no effect. Come off the accelerator, hold the steering wheel tightly so you have control when grip returns, and point your wheels where you want to go.
- Skidding. Too much speed on a slippery surface may result in a skid, but with traction support systems this is managed by coming off the accelerator; generally this will ‘remove the cause’.
- Are the roads icy? If you’ve had to scrape ice from your vehicle, then it’s fair to assume the roads will be in the same condition.
- Driving on ice. If the steering feels light, beware! Where possible, use engine braking. The correct use of speed is crucial. If you slide at 10mph then try to drive at 4mph!
- Maintaining traction. Four-wheel drive offers improved traction on slippery surfaces, but it doesn’t make you invincible. Respect the need to maintain traction and control by ensuring a safe speed and using a higher gear if necessary.
- Braking distances. Stopping on snow or ice takes significantly longer than usual, so extend your separation distances greatly.
- ABS on ice or snow. Be aware that on slick ice or snow, ABS does not offer the same stopping advantages it usually does. Consider using engine braking and always brake early and softly.
- Smoother is safer. Never snatch the steering or make abrupt use of the brakes or accelerator – be smooth and gentle with the vehicle’s controls.
Ultimately, always drive within your experience and limitations. And one final hack to remember when driving in demanding situations: never accelerate towards a danger – only away from it!
This story was first featured in evo issue 342.
