What is the Best way to get out of a Snowy Situation?
Winter driving can be challenging, especially when snow piles up and traps your vehicle. Many drivers experience that frustrating moment when their tires spin, but the car doesn’t move.
Getting stuck in snow is more common than you might think, especially for those living in regions with heavy snowfall. But don’t worry – there are effective methods to help you get unstuck and back on the road safely.
Cars Get Stuck in the Snow
Snow reduces the friction between the tires and the road, causing your car to lose traction. Without traction, your tires can’t grip the surface, leaving you immobile. Over-spinning your tires when stuck in snow can dig your car deeper into a snowy rut, making it even harder to get free.
Here are some tips for driving in the snow
Your vehicle should be equipped with snow tires
One of the best ways to prevent getting stuck is to install snow tires on your vehicle. Snow tires are specifically designed to handle icy and snowy conditions by offering better grip than standard tires.
Carry Emergency Supplies
Before heading out into snowy conditions, make sure to carry some essential supplies:
Learn how to use snow chains
Snow chains provide extra traction in deep snow, helping your tires grip the surface. It’s crucial to practice putting them on your tires before you’re caught in an emergency, so you’ll be prepared if needed.
Why We Get Stuck
When it snows, tires lose traction
Tires work by creating friction between the rubber and the road. When snow and ice reduce this friction, your tires lose their ability to grip, causing them to spin in place. The combination of cold temperatures and the slickness of the snow contributes to this loss of traction.
Spinning tires make it worse
Spinning your tires when stuck in snow can make the situation worse. The friction caused by spinning tires melts the snow underneath, turning it into ice, which is even more slippery. This icy layer makes it even harder to regain traction.
When Your Car Gets Stuck in Snow
Assess the situation calmly and stay calm
Panic only leads to poor decisions. Start by staying calm and evaluating your surroundings. Is there deep snow around your car, or are the tires just on a slippery surface?
Clear Snow Around the Tires
Use a shovel (or anything flat) to clear as much snow as possible from around your tires. Try to create a clear path for your tires to gain traction.
Rocking the Car Technique
The rocking technique involves gently moving your car forward and backward in small increments to help gain momentum. By switching between reverse and drive, you can try to build enough movement to escape the snow.
The Best Traction Devices for Gaining Grip
Sand, Kitty Litter, or Salt
Pouring sand, kitty litter, or salt under your tires can provide extra grip. These materials help by increasing friction between your tires and the snow.
Floor Mats or Cardboard
In a pinch, you can place your car’s floor mats or pieces of cardboard under the tires. This trick can help the tires get enough traction to move out of the snow.
Using the Rocking Technique Properly
A guide to forward and reverse rocking
Start by gently pressing the gas in reverse, then quickly shift into drive, continuing this motion. The goal is to use the car’s momentum to create a rocking motion that can help free it.
Maintaining Your Transmission to Avoid Damage
While the rocking technique is helpful, make sure to avoid revving your engine too hard or shifting too quickly, as this could damage your transmission.
Increasing tire grip by reducing tire pressure
A Reason for Reducing Pressure
Lowering your tire pressure slightly increases the surface area of the tire that touches the ground, which can help improve grip in the snow.
How Much to Reduce
Typically, you should reduce the tire pressure by around 5-10 PSI, but be careful not to go too low, as this can make driving unsafe once you’re unstuck.
Reducing pressure for this reason
The proper way to shovel snow
When shoveling snow around your car, focus on clearing snow from in front of all four tires. Try to dig out any packed snow that may be stopping your tires from moving.
Where to Focus Shoveling Efforts
Concentrate on clearing snow behind the tires and in front of the vehicle to create a clear path.
When to Call for Help
Signs You Need Professional Assistance
If your car is severely stuck or you’re in a dangerous situation (e.g., a blizzard), it’s time to call for help. It’s better to be safe than risk damaging your vehicle or putting yourself in harm’s way.
Local Emergency Services for Winter Conditions
Know your local emergency numbers or roadside assistance services that can help get you out of the snow quickly and safely.
Guide to preventing Getting Stuck Again
Driving Tips for Snowy Conditions
When driving in snow, go slow, and avoid sudden movements like sharp turns or quick stops. Keep a consistent speed and try to avoid areas where snow is deep or piled up.
Winterizing Your Vehicle
Preparing your vehicle for winter by keeping it serviced, adding antifreeze, and ensuring your tires are suitable for snowy conditions can significantly reduce the chances of getting stuck.
Conclusion
Getting stuck in snow is a common winter driving hazard, but with the right tools, techniques, and knowledge, you can get unstuck safely and efficiently. Always be prepared by carrying the right equipment, knowing the right methods, and staying calm. Most importantly, remember that safety comes first.