Driving during winters presents a unique range of challenges that you might not experience during other seasons. Unfortunately, approximately 50% of the country’s weather-related accidents occur during the icy, slushy, or snowy conditions. This is because of the common mistakes many drivers make during winters. Hence, it is best if you are always prepared to slow down when you are behind the wheel in winters. 

Common mistakes for winter tire safety

Not being well-prepared
Many riders are caught off-guard, especially during the first snow of winters. The nex day of the first snow of the season is the most challenging time to get on the wheels. This is probably because of two reasons. Firstly, all the winter driving tips that they practiced last year are usually forgotten. Secondly, drivers do not prepare their cars for the snow. To prepare your car tires for winters, you must ensure that all the tires have a minimum 6/32 inch deep tread. Your all-weather tires are adept at handling all types of driving conditions; however, if you live in an area that snows frequently, opt for snow tires.

Further, it would be best if you examined your battery power and anti-freeze levels. Also, check if the defogger of the rear window and the defroster are in working condition. For getting the car out of the snow, you must invest in a quality kitty litter and snow shovel. Additionally, stack a snow scraper, flashlights, and flares in the car’s trunk. It will make sure you do not get stuck in the snow and prevent any damage to the tires. This is one of the most common mistakes for winter tire safety.

Not keeping adequate distance
In the snowy weather, the space between the two vehicles is critical. It is easier for the tires to lose traction in the icy weather. Thus, proper distance needs to be maintained at all times. This is because the vehicle will usually take a longer time to stop or slow down in the snowy conditions. At all times, you must curtail your urge to tailgate when the traffic is moving slow.

Moreover, if you are too close to the vehicle in front, the focus is always on their bumper and not the road ahead or around. It is one of the   common mistakes for winter tire safety. Besides concentrating on the road, you should pay attention to the rearview mirror. This is because, in many cases, the crashes in the bad weather are rear-ended collisions. 

Driving too fast
Driving too fast in the snow is the worst thing that you can do to your car and its tires. Always remember the tires are slippery in winters, and when they slip, every second can make a huge difference. When you drive too fast, you have little time to prevent a collision. So, be slow and safe.