Status: 16.01.2024, 18:55 PM
By: Annika Ketzler
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In snow and slippery conditions, a careful driving style is the be-all and end-all. But the car should also be well equipped. Things to keep in mind.
Hamm - Snow, slippery roads and permafrost: The weather is getting really wintry and sometimes dangerous again. And it should stay that way for the time being. For some parts of North Rhine-Westphalia, the German Weather Service (DWD) issued a warning for icy conditions and fresh snow. So if you can, it's better to leave the car at home. But if you still have to go out, you should be especially careful on the roads. The right equipment for the car and the right driving style can help.
Driving despite slippery roads and snow – what you should keep in mind
Wetteronline advises a checklist that can ensure a safe and stress-free ride in winter:
- Winter tire
- Charged battery
- Antifreeze in the wiper water
- Working radiator
- Sufficiently filled tank
Car should be well equipped in frost and snow
In addition, an ice scraper, snow sweeper and de-icing spray should be handy outside the car before driving. Before a longer car journey, drivers should also equip themselves with a warm blanket, a mobile phone cable and a hot drink – in case there is a longer traffic jam. Niklas Weise from Wetteronline also advises: "Sunglasses should also be ready in the car to prevent glare from the low sun. Behind the wheel, thick winter clothing restricts freedom of movement, so you should take it off beforehand."
Allow enough time for a ride in slippery and snowy conditions
If icy days and snowfall are imminent, drivers should also plan enough time – also to avoid stress. After all, clearing the cars of snow and ice takes time. And more time should also be planned for a slow driving style.
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And how do you drive mindfully in winter? If there is slippery and snowy conditions, it is important to accelerate as little as possible when starting off. Since the braking distance is significantly longer on slippery roads, it is also important to keep your distance. Timely and careful braking will prevent the car from skidding. Under no circumstances should it be driven jerkily. "If you do start sliding, take your foot off the brakes, press the clutch and countersteer," says Wetteronline. If emergency braking is unavoidable, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) in the cars reacts. This means that the car remains steerable and drivers can avoid possible obstacles.
If the icy car door can't be opened, some tricks help. Not removing snow and ice before driving can have consequences. Fines may be imposed.