Winter holidays are an exciting time of year. However, they may also present a number of travel hazards. To keep you safe while traversing snow-covered roads, we’ve listed some helpful tips for you.

1. Plan Your Trip

Take the time to research your route and make sure you’re familiar with it. Check the weather forecast in advance, so you’re not caught off guard. Ensure that your vehicle is well-maintained and winter-ready before you hit the road.

Pack an emergency kit that includes blankets, a flashlight, first aid, and a mobile phone charger.

2. Check the Weather

Before you leave, check the current and predicted weather along your route. You should also have a general idea of what the weather will be like at your destination. Consider alternative routes if road conditions are sub-optimal.

Additionally, be aware of any winter storm warnings and follow any advice or instructions issued by local law enforcement.

3. Drive Slowly

The first law of winter driving is to slow down. As a general rule, you should reduce your speed by 50% in snowy and icy conditions. Maintain a safe following distance and avoid hard braking.

Always consider that it can be difficult to stop quickly on icy roads. If you feel your car slipping, ease off on the gas pedal and steer in the direction you want to go to regain control.

4. Wear Appropriate Clothes

When traveling in winter conditions, always bring clothes that are suitable for the weather. Pack layers, so you can adjust your clothing to your comfort level.

A heavy coat, gloves, and hat can help you stay warm if you have to exit the car in an emergency. Additionally, wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots with good traction to minimize the chance of slipping and falling.

5. Keep Your Gas Tank Full

Avoid letting your gas level get too low. You never know how long you might be stuck in a situation where your car is not moving, so it’s important to have enough fuel to keep the engine running and provide heat in case you need it.

In addition, keeping your tank as full as possible will help to avoid gas-line freeze-up during extremely cold weather.

6. Stay Alert and Focused

Driving in winter weather requires your undivided attention. Put away all distractions- such as phones and music- and concentrate solely on the road and surrounding drivers.

Keep your eyes on the road and regularly scan ahead and to the side, as well as checking that your mirrors are adjusted correctly.

7. Avoid Driving in Adverse Conditions

If possible, avoid driving in adverse conditions altogether. If the weather is too dangerous, it’s just not worth the risk. Instead, delay your travel plans until road and weather conditions improve.

If you can, wait until the snowplows and sand trucks have done their job and most of the winter traffic has cleared out.

8. Follow Traffic Regulations and Rules

It’s essential to follow all traffic rules and regulations to avoid accidents on the road. Keep up your speed limits, adhere to traffic signals, and follow the law.

It can be especially risky in winter during adverse weather conditions, so keep a keen eye on difficult lanes to navigate and any weather-disturbed road conditions.

9. Use Your Lights Properly

Ensure that your headlights are clean and adjusted correctly so that they provide the light necessary to see through the storm. Additionally, use your headlights while driving during winter conditions–both day and night.

Put your high beams on when indicated, but be sure to turn them off when you approach another vehicle already on the road.

10. Keep a Positive Attitude

Lastly, maintaining optimism during stressful situations can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional state. If the road conditions are challenging, try to stay calm and positive.

Consider ways to keep yourself and any passengers entertained, like playing road trip games or keeping each other updated with podcasts or music.

Winter driving is not always easy, but taking the necessary precautions can help ensure you and your loved ones arrive at your destination safe and sound. Remember to plan ahead, drive carefully, and stay alert.

By doing so, you’re making the right choice and enjoying the splendor of a winter wonderland.