12/06/2025
Winter-driving safety tips from Utah Department of Public Safety
1. Check conditions before you go — Look up the weather forecast and road conditions. First snow or ice often catches people off-guard.
2. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle — Make sure windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, signal lights and license plates are visible. Hiding snow on the roof or hood is dangerous for you and other drivers.
3. Drive well below the posted speed limit when roads are slick — Speed limits are set for dry conditions; when it’s wet, icy or snowy, slow down significantly.
4. Increase following distance (leave more space) — On ice or snow, it takes longer to stop. Leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
5. Avoid sudden stops, starts, and sharp turns — Accelerate gently, brake slowly (especially on icy roads), and avoid abrupt steering.
6. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, ramps, and shady spots — These areas freeze first and may stay icy even when surrounding roads seem clear.
7. Don’t rely solely on 4-wheel drive or AWD for safety — While helpful for traction, those systems don’t improve braking or prevent sliding on ice. You still need to drive cautiously.
8. Give snowplows extra space and respect their work — Roads behind snowplows are often safer. Don’t crowd them, especially don’t pass on the right.
9. Keep a winter emergency kit in your car — Include essentials: blanket, extra warm clothes, flashlight, water and food, ice scraper/shovel, possibly sand or kitty-litter for traction, jumper cables, first-aid kit.
10. If you can avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snow or ice, do so — It’s safer to wait until conditions improve than risk slippery roads or reduced visibility.
