For new drivers, winter roads can be as unpredictable as the weather itself. From icy surfaces to blinding snowstorms, navigating the roads during the colder months requires more than just basic driving skills—it calls for preparation, caution, and adaptability. With proper planning and awareness, you can handle winter’s challenges like a seasoned driver. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and confident behind the wheel.

Your safety starts before you even leave your driveway. Winter weather can take a toll on your vehicle, so ensuring it’s in peak condition is crucial. Start by checking your tires. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tires with less than 2/32 of an inch of tread are unsafe. Proper tread depth and inflation levels are critical for traction on icy roads, and winter tires can offer enhanced grip in snow and ice. Additionally, batteries lose about 60% of their power in freezing temperatures, so make sure yours is tested. Top off all fluids, including windshield washer fluid designed for freezing conditions, and check your antifreeze to protect your engine. Lastly, pack an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, snacks, a phone charger, and tools like a small shovel and kitty litter for traction.

Additionally, clearing snow and ice from your car isn’t just a good safety habit—it’s the law in many places, including New Jersey. Snow left on your car can fly off while driving, potentially causing accidents. Driving with snow or ice on your car can result in fines ranging from $25 to $75, or more if flying debris causes damage. Always scrape frost and ice off your windshields and windows for clear visibility. Don’t forget your headlights, taillights, and mirrors, which are critical for ensuring you can see and be seen on the road.

Winter driving requires patience and adaptability. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, over 116,000 people are injured annually in car crashes during snowy or icy weather. To stay safe, reduce your speed and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times. Avoid sudden movements when braking, accelerating, or turning, as they can cause skidding. Be especially cautious of black ice, which is nearly invisible and forms in shaded areas or on bridges. If you encounter it, steer gently and avoid sudden braking to maintain control. Even with careful preparation, emergencies can happen on the road. If your car skids, stay calm, ease off the gas, and gently steer in the direction you want to go. If you get stuck in the snow, avoid spinning your tires as this can make the situation worse. Instead, keep sand or kitty litter with you and use it to improve traction to try rocking the car back and forth to get unstuck. In more serious situations, such as being stranded, stay with your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and use your emergency kit to stay warm and visible until help arrives.

Preparation extends beyond your car—it also means staying informed about road and weather conditions. Before heading out, check the forecast for storm warnings or icy conditions in your area. Use technology like navigation apps or local Department of Transportation websites to monitor road closures or hazards in real time. When conditions are severe, it’s best to avoid unnecessary travel. According to the NHTSA, staying home during winter storms can be the safest choice.

Winter driving can be challenging, but with preparation and caution, you can face it confidently. Keep your car in top shape, clear off snow and ice, adjust your driving habits, and always be ready for emergencies. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to winter roads, and by prioritizing safety, you’ll ensure that you and your passengers arrive at your destination safely—even if it’s just for that bowl of soup waiting at home!

For more information and driving safety tips, visit the following resources:

• https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips 
• https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/ 
• https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/traveling-in-pa/safety/traffic-safety-driver-topics/winter-driving.html 
• https://www.njoag.gov/about/divisions-and-offices/division-of-highway-traffic-safety-home/ice-and-snow-remove-it-before-you-go/