TL;DR: The best winter driving survival tips include preparing your vehicle for cold weather, carrying a well-stocked winter emergency kit, and adjusting your driving habits for snow and ice. In short, make sure your car is ready for winter (battery, tires, fluids, etc.), keep essential supplies in your vehicle (like warm clothes, flashlight, shovel, snacks, etc.), and drive slowly and cautiously on slippery roads. For example, winter storms and icy roads contribute to nearly half a million crashes and over 2,000 deaths every winter. So planning ahead and driving safely is literally life-saving. (If you need immediate assistance or have questions, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.)
With the cold and frosty months back, drivers must contend with seasonal challenges like snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. But it takes just a little preparation and know-how to dramatically improve your safety on winter roads. Below we’ll answer common questions about winter driving survival, from prepping your car to handling emergencies.
How can I prepare my car for winter driving?
Preparing your car for winter is the first step to staying safe. Cold weather can strain vehicle systems, so give your car some TLC before venturing out on snowy roads:
Get a winter maintenance check-up
Have a mechanic inspect your battery, brakes, engine coolant (antifreeze), and oil. Cold temperatures reduce a battery’s cranking power, so if your battery is old or weak, replace it before it fails on a frigid morning. Also, top off fluids with winter-grade versions. For example, use winter formula windshield washer fluid that won’t freeze in the reservoir. Ensure your defrosters and heater are working properly so you can keep the windshield clear and stay warm.
Check your tires
Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread for traction. As temperatures drop, tire pressure can decrease, so check it frequently. Consider installing winter tires if you live in an area with heavy snow or ice because their specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds provide better grip in cold conditions.
Keep at least half a tank of gas
Don’t let your fuel level dip too low in winter. Fuel lines can freeze if condensation forms inside an empty tank. AAA recommends always keeping at least a half tank of fuel during cold months. This also ensures you have enough gas to run the engine (and heater) if you get stuck in traffic or stranded. It’s an easy habit that provides extra peace of mind.
Plan for the weather
Before any trip, check the forecast and road conditions. If a major snowstorm or ice storm is coming, consider postponing travel. Sometimes the safest driving decision is not to drive at all. If you must head out, let someone know your route and expected arrival time. In Illinois, for example, officials advise not traveling in bad weather unless absolutely necessary. Share your travel plan with a friend or family member so someone is aware of where you’ll be.
Carry roadside assistance info
Have contact information for a roadside assistance service or keep a AAA membership card handy. Program emergency numbers into your phone. In Illinois, drivers on tollways can dial *999 for motorist assistance if stranded. Of course, also keep your cell phone charger in the car (or a portable battery pack) so you’re not caught with a dead phone when you need help.
Taking these steps to winterize your car will greatly reduce the chance of a breakdown and help ensure you’re ready for the cold. Once your vehicle is prepared, the next key is assembling a proper emergency kit.
What emergency items should I keep in my car during winter?
Winter conditions can deteriorate quickly, and you might find yourself stuck in a snowbank or caught in a blizzard unexpectedly. That’s why experts strongly recommend keeping a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Here is a checklist of essential items to include (and why each is important):
Full Tank of Gas (Keep Fuel Level Up)
This isn’t something you store in the trunk, but it’s worth repeating: always start out with a full (or near-full) gas tank in winter. It ensures you won’t run out of fuel if you get stuck in traffic or need to idle the engine for warmth during an emergency. Plus, a fuller tank helps prevent ice from forming in the fuel lines. As mentioned, aim for at least half a tank at all times. It’s a simple tip that can save you from a lot of trouble.
Sturdy Flashlight (and Spare Batteries)
Winter days are short, and darkness comes early. If your car breaks down at night or in low-visibility conditions, a good flashlight is a lifeline. It helps you see and be seen. Use a flashlight to inspect under the hood, change a tire, or signal for help. Pack extra batteries, too, since cold weather can drain battery life. A bright, durable flashlight can make a huge difference when you’re stuck on a dark, snowy roadside.
Extra Warm Clothing and Blankets
There’s nothing like a warm, toasty car. But if your engine dies or you get stranded, that heat won’t last. Pack extra clothing layers for each passenger: a winter coat, hat, gloves or mittens, and even a scarf or thermal socks. In addition, keep a blanket (or even a sleeping bag) in the car. These items will help everyone stay warm if you have to wait for assistance. Hypothermia is a real risk if you’re exposed to the cold for too long, so you want to be able to bundle up.
Tip: Consider a Mylar emergency blanket as well. Those foil-like survival blankets can reflect body heat effectively in a pinch.
Cell Phone Charger or Power Bank
You don’t want to imagine needing to dial 911 or a tow truck and finding your phone battery is dead, let alone live it. That’s why you should always keep a phone charger in your vehicle, ideally one that can plug into the car’s accessory outlet. Better yet, carry a fully-charged portable power bank as backup, in case your car’s electrical system fails. Being able to keep your phone powered could be a literal lifesaver.
Pro tip: Don’t forget a charging cable that fits your phone, and consider an adapter if needed for newer phones.
Ice Scraper, Snow Brush, Small Shovel & Traction Aid
If you can’t see, you can’t drive, so an ice scraper and a snow brush are must-haves. Clear all ice and snow from your windshield, windows, and lights before driving. Visibility is critical. Also carry a small shovel. If your car gets plowed in by snow or slides off the road, you may need to dig out around the tires or clear the exhaust pipe. A compact, collapsible shovel works great and doesn’t take much space. For traction, keep a bag of something gritty like sand or kitty litter. If your tires are spinning on ice, sprinkling sand or kitty litter under them can help provide grip to get you moving. Some people carry traction mats or even old floor mats to wedge under the tires. So use whatever you have to gain friction. These simple tools can be the difference between being stuck for five minutes or five hours.
Jumper Cables (or Jump Starter)
Cold weather is tough on car batteries. In fact, a dead battery is a leading cause of winter roadside trouble. Pack a set of jumper cables in case you (or a fellow motorist) need a jump-start. That way, if someone with a working car comes along, you have the cables to connect batteries. Make sure you know the proper procedure for using jumper cables safely – red clamp to positive, black to negative on the good battery and an unpainted metal surface on the dead car. Better yet, consider investing in a portable jump starter (a small battery pack with jumper clamps). These devices can boost your battery without another car’s help, which is incredibly handy if you’re alone in a remote area. Keeping jumper cables or a jump box in your trunk can get you back on the road faster and save you from waiting in the cold for a tow truck.
First Aid Kit and Medications
In any season, it’s wise to have a first aid kit in the car, but it’s especially important in winter when help may take longer to arrive. A basic kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, pain relievers, and gloves. If you take any prescription medications that you might need if delayed, keep a small supply in your kit (be mindful of temperature sensitivity for meds). In a crash or if someone gets minor injuries (cuts, scrapes) while shoveling or pushing a car, first aid supplies allow you to tend to wounds immediately. It’s all about being self-sufficient until professionals can assist.
Non-Perishable Food and Water
Being stranded for hours is bad enough, but being stranded and hungry is worse. Pack some high-energy, non-perishable snacks in your emergency kit. Good options include protein bars, granola, dried fruit, nuts, or jerky. These can keep you nourished and alert if you’re stuck waiting for rescue. A couple of bottles of water are important too because staying hydrated helps you maintain body heat. (In very cold climates, water bottles might freeze if left in the car long-term. One trick is to fill them only 3/4 full to allow expansion, or keep them in an insulated container.) Having some food and water on hand also ensures you can get by for a while if help is slow to arrive.
Flares or Reflective Triangles
If you do get stranded or have to pull over, you want other drivers (and rescuers) to see you, especially in poor visibility. Keep road flares, LED flare lights, or reflective warning triangles in your trunk. These can be placed on the ground behind your vehicle to alert oncoming traffic that there’s a stopped car ahead. In heavy snow or fog, a flare’s bright light can be seen when your hazard lights alone might not cut it. Illinois DOT specifically recommends carrying flares or reflectors in a winter emergency kit. Being visible can prevent a bad situation from becoming worse (for example, preventing another car from accidentally hitting your stopped vehicle).
Pro Tip: Store your winter emergency items in an old gym bag or plastic bin in the trunk so they’re organized. Check your kit at the start of each winter and replace any used or expired items (like food, or batteries that might have drained). Hopefully you won’t need to use your kit – but if you do, you’ll be incredibly glad to have it.
How can I drive safely on snowy and icy roads?
Even a well-prepared car won’t save you if you drive recklessly on snow or ice. Winter driving requires a slow and cautious approach. Here are some of the most important safe-driving practices for winter weather:
Slow Down and Leave Extra Space
On slick roads, your tires have far less grip, so reduce your speed significantly. Give yourself plenty of time to brake. In fact, experts recommend increasing your following distance to 5-6 seconds behind the car in front of you in winter. This extra space is needed because stopping can take much longer on icy roads. If you drive slowly and keep your distance, you’ll have a better chance to react if something goes wrong.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Quick acceleration, hard braking, and sharp turns can all cause skids. Accelerate and decelerate gradually to maintain traction. When coming to a stop, start braking early and gently. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the pedal firmly and let the ABS do the work. If you don’t have ABS and feel the wheels locking up, pump the brakes lightly to avoid a skid. Steer and change lanes slowly and smoothly. A good way to ensure you do this is pretending there’s a hot cup of coffee on your dashboard. Now every input (gas, brake, steering) should be gentle enough not to spill it.
Do Not Use Cruise Control on Snow/Ice
Never use cruise control in winter conditions. You need to be in full control and actively engaged when roads are slippery. Cruise control can actually make your wheels spin if it tries to maintain speed during a patch of ice. Keep your feet on the pedals so you can respond immediately to any loss of traction.
Keep Visibility in Mind
Before driving, clear all snow and ice from your car, and not just the windshield, but also windows, mirrors, headlights and tail lights. Snow flying off your roof can obscure your rear window or hit cars behind you, so brush that off too. While driving, use your low-beam headlights in snowy or gloomy conditions so others can see you (many newer cars do this automatically). Also, be extra cautious in areas prone to ice: bridges, overpasses, and shaded stretches of road can hide black ice (transparent ice that’s hard to see). If the road looks slick or you suspect black ice, slow down even more and avoid sudden braking.
Be Extra Careful on Hills
Driving on hills comes with special challenges. Don’t stop going up a hill if you can avoid it because if you lose momentum, you might not be able to regain traction. Try to get some speed on flat ground before you ascend, then ease off the gas near the top to avoid spinning out. Conversely, go very slowly down hills and avoid braking hard, which could cause a skid.
Stay Off the Roads During Storms if Possible
The safest way to drive on ice and snow is, frankly, not to drive at all unless you have to. If authorities are advising people to stay home due to a blizzard, heed those warnings. Not only do you risk your own safety by going out, but you could also hinder snowplows and emergency crews. Always ask yourself if that trip is truly necessary right now. If you can delay errands or work from home during a big storm, do it. There’s no substitute for avoiding hazardous road conditions entirely.
“Don’t Crowd the Plow”
If you’re sharing the road with snowplows or salt trucks, give them plenty of space. Snowplow drivers have limited visibility, and they often make wide turns or may throw snow and debris to the sides. IDOT famously warns, “Don’t crowd the plow”. Stay well behind plows (give at least several car lengths distance). The road will be clearer behind a plow than in front of it, so there’s no benefit in tailgating or trying to overtake one. Passing a working plow is risky because you might hit a ridge of snow or ice between lanes and lose control. So be patient and let them do their job, you’ll get to your destination safer by staying back.
Avoid Distractions and Buckle Up
This applies year-round, but it’s even more important in winter. Wear your seatbelt (it’s your best defense in a crash) and put away distractions. Phone down, eyes on the road. If you need to adjust the GPS, heat, or anything else, try to do it while stopped. Your full attention is needed for spotting hazards like sudden icy patches or vehicles in trouble up ahead. And remember that four-wheel drive or ABS doesn’t make you invincible on ice. Technology helps, but physics is physics. Staying alert and focused is key.
By following these safe-driving tips, you greatly reduce the risk of an accident on winter roads. But what if, despite all precautions, you find yourself in an emergency situation? Let’s go over how to handle some common winter driving emergencies.
What should I do if something goes wrong while driving in winter?
Even the best drivers can get into sticky situations due to winter weather. Whether you skid on ice, get stuck in snow, or experience a vehicle breakdown in a blizzard, it’s important to know how to react calmly and safely. Below is a quick-reference table for common winter road emergencies and the steps to take:
| Winter Emergency | What To Do |
| Skidding on ice (loss of control) | Stay calm: Take your foot off the gas and do NOT slam the brakes. Gently steer in the direction of the skid (i.e. where the rear is sliding) to realign the car. As the vehicle straightens, carefully straighten the wheel. Avoid overcorrecting and make small, smooth steering inputs. Once you regain traction, continue at a reduced speed. |
| Getting stuck in snow (unable to move) | Stay with your vehicle (don’t wander off in deep snow). Clear snow from around the tires and under the car with your shovel. Spread sand/kitty litter under the drive wheels for traction. Try the “rocking” technique: gently accelerate forward a bit, then reverse, and repeat, to nudge the car out. Do not spin the tires rapidly, that just digs deeper. If you can’t free the car after a few attempts, it’s time to call for help or flag down assistance. In the meantime, ensure the exhaust pipe is clear (to prevent carbon monoxide buildup) and run the heater periodically to stay warm. |
| Stranded or breakdown in a storm | Stay in the car because it’s your shelter and easiest for rescuers to find. Run the engine ~10 minutes per hour for heat, and crack a window slightly for fresh air. Make your car visible: turn on hazard lights, and tie a bright cloth to your antenna or window. If at night, keep the dome light on. Avoid overexertion (e.g. don’t try to push the car if you’re alone and it’s futile). Call 911 or roadside assistance and give your location. Wait for help and periodically clear snow from around the exhaust if it’s accumulating. Stay bundled up in your blankets and conserve your phone battery (but periodically check for updated emergency information or signals). |
In any winter emergency, remember the overarching rules: stay calm, stay with your vehicle, and make yourself visible. Running off looking for help is risky because you could get lost in heavy snow. Your car is easier to spot than a person on foot, so unless you see a building very close by where you can take shelter, it’s usually safer to stay put.
Remember to periodically check that the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow. A blocked exhaust can cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to fill the car when the engine is running. If you start feeling dizzy or lightheaded while the car is running that’s a sign of possible CO buildup. Turn it off and ventilate.
If you’ve called for help or alerted authorities, sit tight and wait. It may take time for rescuers or tow trucks to reach you in a severe storm (they’re likely helping many others as well). Use your emergency kit supplies to stay as comfortable as possible until help arrives. This is when that preparation truly pays off.
Lastly, once the ordeal is over and you’re safe, take stock of what happened. If there’s anything you could do differently next time (e.g. carrying a certain item, avoiding that route, leaving earlier), make a note of it. Winter driving can be a learning experience every year.
FAQ: Winter Driving Survival Tips
Q: What should I keep in a winter car emergency kit?
A: A well-stocked winter car emergency kit should include items to help if you get stranded or stuck. Must-haves include: a flashlight (with spare batteries), jumper cables (or a portable jump starter), an ice scraper and small shovel, sand or kitty litter for tire traction, a first aid kit, and warm gear like an extra coat, gloves, hat, and a blanket. Also pack some non-perishable snacks and water for energy and hydration, and road flares or reflective triangles to signal your location. Don’t forget a cell phone charger or battery pack to keep your phone powered. These supplies will help you stay safe and comfortable until help can arrive.
Q: How do I get my car unstuck from snow?
A: First, don’t floor the gas pedal – spinning tires usually digs you in deeper. Instead, gently rock the car out: with the car in low gear, give a little gas to move forward, then let off and roll back, and repeat, gradually trying to gain momentum. Shovel snow away from around the drive wheels and under the car. Spread some kind of grit under the tires for traction, like sand, cat litter, salt, or even your car’s floor mats can help the tires grip. It often takes a few back-and-forth tries to get moving. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow if you’re running the engine, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. If you’re truly stuck and these methods don’t work, it’s time to call for a tow or flag down help. While waiting, stay in the vehicle to keep warm and safe.
Q: What should I do if my car skids on ice while driving?
A: The moment you feel a skid or slide on ice, take your foot off the accelerator. Resist the urge to slam on the brakes – sudden braking can make the skid worse. Instead, focus on steering gently in the direction you want to go (which is often the same direction the rear of your car is sliding). This is commonly called “turning into the skid.” For example, if your back end is sliding left, gently steer left. Keep your eyes on where you want to end up, not on what you might hit. As the tires regain traction, you should feel the car start to straighten out. At that point, you can very carefully straighten the wheel. The key is to stay calm and avoid overcorrecting – if you jerk the wheel too far the other way, the car could spin out. Modern cars with stability control and ABS can help in recovering from skids, but the driver’s smooth input is crucial. Once you’ve recovered, pull over when safe to catch your breath. Skids are scary, but if handled properly, you can often avoid an accident.
Q: Do I need snow tires or chains for winter driving?
A: Winter tires (also called snow tires) are highly recommended if you live in an area with frequent snow, ice, or temperatures consistently below 45°F (7°C). Winter tires are made of a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in cold weather, and they have tread patterns designed to grip snow and ice. They can significantly improve traction and braking in winter conditions. If you only occasionally see snow, at least ensure your all-season tires have good tread depth. Tire chains are usually only needed in extreme snow or mountain conditions (and in some places they’re required by law in blizzards). Chains provide excellent traction on packed snow/ice, but they’re not meant for regular high-speed driving or clear roads. For most urban drivers, proper winter tires (or all-weather tires) on all four wheels are the best solution for winter safety. Always check your local regulations and conditions. In some regions, carrying chains in the vehicle is advisable in case you encounter severe conditions.
Q: Why is it important to keep your gas tank at least half full in winter?
A: There are two main reasons. First, a fuller gas tank helps prevent fuel line freeze-up. In cold weather, condensation can form inside a near-empty tank; this water can sink to the bottom and potentially freeze in fuel lines, blocking fuel flow. Keeping the tank over half reduces the air space where condensation can occur, lowering that risk. Second, if you get stuck or delayed (say in a traffic jam during a snowstorm or due to an accident ahead), you may need to idle your engine to stay warm. Having plenty of fuel ensures you can run the heater periodically over potentially several hours. It’s basically cheap insurance for your comfort and car’s operability. As AAA puts it, “Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times” during winter. It also means you’ll be ready in case gas stations are closed or inaccessible during a big storm.
Q: Should I warm up my car before driving in cold weather?
A: It’s no longer necessary to let your car idle for a long time to “warm up” the engine – that’s a holdover from decades past. Modern fuel-injected engines require only a brief warm-up. Experts suggest about 30 seconds to 1 minute of idling is enough on cold start, just to get oil circulating. After that, the best way to warm the car is by driving it gently. Prolonged idling wastes fuel and can produce a lot of exhaust (and if done in a garage, is very dangerous due to carbon monoxide). However, you should absolutely make sure your windows are fully defrosted and clear before you start driving. So in practice, you might start the car, turn on the front and rear defrosters, and let it run for a minute or two while you scrape off ice and snow from the outside. This way, the engine warms slightly and your windshield clears. Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed space like a garage, rather always move it outside first.
Q: When is it unsafe to drive in winter weather?
A: If authorities issue blizzard warnings, ice storm warnings, or declare a state of emergency due to winter weather, that’s a clear sign you should stay off the roads. Generally, if snow is falling so hard that plows can’t keep up, or if ice is coating all surfaces, driving is unsafe for any non-emergency travel. Also consider visibility. During a whiteout (heavy snow + wind) you may not be able to see the road edges or other cars, which is extremely hazardous. If you do not absolutely have to go somewhere during such conditions, don’t risk it. Wait until conditions improve. It’s also wise to avoid driving if your vehicle isn’t equipped for the conditions (for example, driving a car with summer tires on ice is a recipe for disaster). Pay attention to travel advisories: if meteorologists and transportation departments are urging people to stay home, take that seriously. No errand or appointment is worth your life. If you’re already on the road and conditions rapidly worsen, try to find a safe place to pull off (e.g. a rest stop or parking lot) and wait it out. Always err on the side of caution with winter storms. It’s better to arrive late (or not at all) than not arrive at all.
By following these winter driving survival tips, you can greatly improve your safety and confidence on the road. Stay warm, drive safe, and remember that Insure on the Spot is here to help with any auto insurance needs, including winter coverage questions or SR-22 insurance requirements for Illinois drivers. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 773-202-5060. Happy winter driving!