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13 essential tips for driving in Utah during the winter

Winter driving conditions can be hazardous for motorists and must be taken very seriously. This is especially true in places like Utah where tourists come to enjoy the legendary powder and slopes of the many ski resorts in the scenic mountains.  And though the winters may be sunny and comfortable some days, Utah has a history for bringing strong cold fronts well into the year without much warning.

Snow and ice are a way of life in the high country, but frozen roadways and blowing snow require drivers to take precautions to ensure their safety.

Before heading out on roads that may be experiencing icy or snowy conditions, take some simple precautions:

1. Always let someone know where you are going and approximately when you will return. Just in case you run into trouble.

2. Keep your cell phone charged so you can call for help if necessary.

3. Carry a supply of water and food in your vehicle.  Energy bars, trail mix or even chocolate can sustain you should you be temporarily stranded.

4. Make sure you have a flashlight with new batteries.

5. Place a couple of bags of sand, kitty litter or salt in the back of your vehicle.  These will provide added weight for better traction and their contents can also be placed in front of your tires for gripping power should you become stuck in ice or snow.

6. Keep a warm blanket or sleeping bag in your car.

7. If a particular roadway is designated as requiring tire chains for passage, don’t attempt to drive there without chains.

8. If you can avoid driving in poor conditions, it is best to do so.  Wait until road crews have cleared the snow and ice before heading out.

 

If you find yourself caught in bad weather, follow a few safety rules:

9. Drive with your lights on.  Low beams are sometimes best if you are driving in blowing snow, so experiment to find which setting gives the best visibility.

10. Go slow.  Stopping distances are easily three times more on ice or snow than on normal, dry surfaces.  Allow the proper distance for stopping safely. With all the construction going on thorough out Utah it is best to go even slower to watch out for traffic barricades and other construction equipment in the winter.

11. If you feel your tires skidding, let your foot off of the accelerator and steer into the direction of the skid.  If you turn the wheel away from the skid, your vehicle could spin.

12. Apply your brakes gently to regain control.  Anti-lock brakes should be held with a steady pressure.  The brakes will pulse to further help prevent skidding.  If your vehicle is not equipped with anti-lock brakes, gently pump the brakes until the vehicle is under control.

13. Driving in winter weather is unavoidable in many parts of Utah, but knowing how to plan for emergencies and driving carefully are the best means of ensuring a safe trip.