Winter Weather Advisory: Driving Safely in Snow and Ice
Winter has officially arrived in South Africa, with the South African Weather Service (SAWS) predicting snowfall across many regions on Monday and Tuesday due to an incoming cold front. This intense cut-off low system is expected to linger until at least Wednesday, potentially bringing snow to every province except Limpopo, particularly affecting mountainous areas. Busy mountain passes, including the N3 highway at Van Reenens, may experience disruptive snowfall.
If you find yourself driving in these conditions, it is crucial to adjust your driving habits. According to Arrive Alive, the key to navigating slippery surfaces is to drive slowly and smoothly. They recommend starting your journey gently to gauge the road conditions without rushing.
Here are some essential driving tips to keep in mind:
- Make turns as smoothly as possible.
- Maintain a longer following distance than usual.
- Avoid hard braking unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not brake while turning.
- Minimize overtaking whenever possible.
- Limit the time spent driving alongside other vehicles.
- Anticipate stops early and decelerate gradually.
When driving uphill, be cautious, as accelerating can lead to skidding. It is advisable to gain some speed before the incline and slow down once you reach the top.
In the event that you lose traction and your vehicle begins to spin, Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, suggests that you should stop accelerating and allow the car to decelerate naturally. He emphasizes that braking during a skid can worsen the situation. Instead, steer in the direction of the spin until it is safe to straighten the vehicle.
Motorists should also be vigilant for black ice, which forms when rain or sleet freezes upon contact with the ground. This hazardous condition can be challenging to detect, appearing as glossy, wet patches on the road. If you encounter black ice, it is crucial to avoid braking; instead, lift your foot off the accelerator and keep the steering straight.
To prevent dangerous situations, check that your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread before hitting the road. Ensure that your anti-freeze levels are sufficient and that your defrosting and heating systems, wipers, washers, and headlights are functioning correctly.
If you find yourself driving in snow and there are no other vehicles nearby, it is advisable to gently test your brakes to assess the roads slipperiness.
If you find yourself driving in these conditions, it is crucial to adjust your driving habits. According to Arrive Alive, the key to navigating slippery surfaces is to drive slowly and smoothly. They recommend starting your journey gently to gauge the road conditions without rushing.
Here are some essential driving tips to keep in mind:
- Make turns as smoothly as possible.
- Maintain a longer following distance than usual.
- Avoid hard braking unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not brake while turning.
- Minimize overtaking whenever possible.
- Limit the time spent driving alongside other vehicles.
- Anticipate stops early and decelerate gradually.
When driving uphill, be cautious, as accelerating can lead to skidding. It is advisable to gain some speed before the incline and slow down once you reach the top.
In the event that you lose traction and your vehicle begins to spin, Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, suggests that you should stop accelerating and allow the car to decelerate naturally. He emphasizes that braking during a skid can worsen the situation. Instead, steer in the direction of the spin until it is safe to straighten the vehicle.
Motorists should also be vigilant for black ice, which forms when rain or sleet freezes upon contact with the ground. This hazardous condition can be challenging to detect, appearing as glossy, wet patches on the road. If you encounter black ice, it is crucial to avoid braking; instead, lift your foot off the accelerator and keep the steering straight.
To prevent dangerous situations, check that your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread before hitting the road. Ensure that your anti-freeze levels are sufficient and that your defrosting and heating systems, wipers, washers, and headlights are functioning correctly.
If you find yourself driving in snow and there are no other vehicles nearby, it is advisable to gently test your brakes to assess the roads slipperiness.
