Winter driving can be precarious, especially when the snow begins to accumulate throughout Alberta. If you’re wondering how you can stay safer during these chilly months, consider keeping these winter driving safety tips in mind.

Keep a light touch on your brakes

Slamming on your brakes when roads are slick can cause a number of things to happen — including a skid. If you find yourself needing to stop quickly, remember to pump your brakes to help you stop without sliding.

Know your skids and how to get out of them

No matter how good you are at winter driving, you still may find yourself skidding on icy roads. If your front wheels have lost traction, simply ease off the gas pedal and steer your vehicle in the direction you want to go and don’t touch any of the pedals.

If you find yourself in a rear-wheel skid, you’ll want to turn your steering wheel into the direction the rear of the vehicle is moving, allowing your vehicle to straighten out. Once again, try not to use the pedals until you’re out of the skid.

Space yourself out from other vehicles

Increase your following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you so you’ll have time to stop in case anything happens with the vehicle in front of you.

Ensure you have good visibility

Before you head out, clear off your vehicle’s windows, hood, taillights, and headlights. This will help you see while driving. Be sure to clear off as much of the roof as possible so that you don’t send sheets of snow or ice at the vehicle behind you when driving.

Here at High River Toyota, we know it can be stressful to drive through our harsh Canadian winters. But with these tips, we hope you’ll have a safe experience on every journey.