Winter and Wet-Weather Driving: What to Do When Roads Get Slick
Snow, ice, and heavy rain reduce traction and increase stopping distances. This guide answers the most common questions drivers have when conditions turn bad: how to drive safely, when you need snow tires, how to brake, and what to do if you slide off the road.
How Should You Drive in Snow and Wet Weather?
Most winter crashes happen because of sudden changes – hard braking, sharp steering, or quick acceleration. Tires only have so much grip. Smooth inputs help preserve it.
- Slow down: Give yourself more time and space.
- Be smooth: Gentle steering, braking, and throttle.
- Brake before turns: Avoid braking mid-corner.
- Look ahead: Early reactions prevent panic moves.
Why Is My Tire Pressure Low in Cold Weather?
As temperatures drop, the air inside your tires contracts. Tire pressure can fall about 1–2 PSI for every 10°F decrease, sometimes overnight.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive on Low Tire Pressure
Under-inflated tires reduce traction and make steering and braking less predictable. In slick conditions, even a small loss of grip can increase stopping distance and make slides harder to correct.
What to Do
- Check pressure when tires are cold.
- Inflate to the recommended PSI on the driver’s-side door jamb.
- Re-check during major temperature swings.
Do I Need Snow Tires?
If you regularly drive in freezing temperatures, snow, or mountain passes, snow tires are one of the most effective safety upgrades you can make. Winter tires use rubber that stays flexible in the cold, improving grip during braking, acceleration, and turning.
- Consistent temps below ~45°F: Snow tires start to make sense.
- Frequent snow or ice: Strongly recommended.
What About All-Season Tires?
All-season tires can work in light winter conditions, but look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. Without it, cold-weather grip is limited.
What Affects Traction in Winter?
Traction comes down to how well your tires can grip the road. Three factors matter most:
Tires
Tire compound and tread determine how much grip you have available in the first place.
Weight Distribution
Adding modest weight over the drive wheels (especially in rear-wheel-drive vehicles) can improve traction. Avoid overloading.
Ground Clearance
In deep snow or slush, clearance helps prevent snow buildup under the vehicle that can reduce traction.
How Do You Drive Safely on Wet Roads at Night?
Wet pavement reflects headlights and reduces visibility. Water mixed with road oils can also make surfaces slick—especially early in a storm.
- Use low beams: High beams reflect off wet roads.
- Slow down: Hydroplaning risk increases with speed.
- Avoid standing water: Brake gently if you can’t.
- Increase following distance: Stopping takes longer.
Is AWD or 4WD Better for Winter Driving?
AWD and 4WD help you get moving—but they don’t help you stop.
- AWD: Automatically adjusts power for mixed conditions and light snow.
- 4WD: Best for deep snow, mud, and off-road use.
Tip: Engage 4WD before you’re stuck, not after. Tires still matter most.
How Should You Brake in Snow or Rain?
The goal is to keep tires rolling so you can steer. Locked wheels slide.
What Is ABS?
ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) prevents wheels from locking by pulsing the brakes during hard stops. You may feel vibration in the pedal. This is normal.
Most cars made after 2012 are equipped with ABS.
Braking in Snow
- With ABS: Press firmly and steadily. Do not pump. Pumping ABS brakes increases stopping distance and reduces control.
- Without ABS: Pump brakes gently to prevent lockup.
- Brake early: Snow increases stopping distance.
Braking in Rain
- Ease off early: Gradual slowing helps prevent hydroplaning.
- Brake gently: Sudden braking can cause skids.
- Avoid braking in puddles: When possible.
I Slid Off the Road—What Do I Do?
First, slow down and don’t panic. Rushing usually makes things worse.
Make It Safe
- Turn on hazard lights.
- Stay in the vehicle if visibility or traffic is dangerous.
Try Self-Recovery
- Straighten the wheels.
- Clear snow from around the tires.
- Use sand, cat litter, or floor mats for traction.
- Rock gently—avoid spinning the tires.
- Disable traction control temporarily if needed.
When to Call for Help
- If you’re not making progress.
- If the vehicle is unstable or in traffic.
- If conditions are worsening.
What Gear Should You Keep in Your Car for Winter Driving?
The right gear can turn a bad situation into a manageable one.
- Portable air compressor
- Traction aids or sand
- Compact shovel
- Jumper cables or battery pack
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Warm layers and gloves
- Water and shelf-stable snacks
- First aid and emergency supplies
Winter driving is about patience, preparation, and margin. Slow down, stay smooth, and give yourself room to react.
Be ready for whatever the road throws your way.
