How To: Driving In Different Types of Snowy Road Conditions

Every year, West Michigan drivers are treated to Lake-Effect snow from Lake Michigan that gradually gives way to colder, powdery snow. The shifting temperatures in our neck of the woods, especially above and below freezing, create a shifting mix of conditions that can make travel hazardous.

Driving in snow requires adapting to different weather conditions like powder, packed snow, slush, and dangerous black ice, demanding slower speeds, increased following distances, smooth inputs, and awareness of slick spots like bridges and ruts, with proper winter tires and vehicle preparation being crucial for traction and control in all scenarios.

First, A Little Physics Lesson

One thing it helps to be aware of is what your vehicle does when you start moving and apply the brakes. When your vehicle starts moving from a stop, the weight shifts to the back wheels, and then you slow down, the weight shifts to the front. This is because the wheels start moving, but because of the suspension, the body needs to be “pulled along” and takes a moment to catch up.

In a front-wheel drive vehicle and in slippery conditions, this means you may find it hard to get going from a stop, and your back end might slide around when braking. Starting and stopping slower and steadier reduces this effect.

Road Conditions in Different Types of Snow

Powdery Snow: This is the fresh, light, and fluffy snow you might find when temperatures are colder. You’ll get a little bit better traction than when driving in packed snow, but powder snow can also reduce visibility – known as whiteout conditions. The roads will still be slick, so go slow, keep acceleration steady, and only brake when you need to.

Packed Snow: After a day or two, if the snow isn’t completely plowed off the road, it becomes compressed by traffic, and often freezes solid. What’s worse, sometimes tire ruts can freeze, creating “tracks” that your tires want to follow and may be hard to steer out of without losing control. As above, make your accelerating and braking smooth and deliberate, and allow yourself plenty of time to react.

Slushy Snow: Slush, or partially-melted snow, creates a soupy mix that can accumulate and pull your vehicle from side to side while driving. It builds up in wheel wells and freezes, which can reduce handling, and the thin layer of water it creates can cause hydroplaning, too. Don’t let your guard down if temperatures rise in the winter; slush can cause just as much trouble as ice.

Black Ice: This is a term for transparent, thin layers of ice. They can be very difficult to spot and extremely slippery. Black ice usually forms after water from a daytime thaw that refreezes at night, especially on bridges and overpasses, because there’s no solid ground beneath to hold heat.

Driving Techniques for Snow

Slow Down & Increase Following Distance: We recommend allowing 7 to 14 seconds of following distance for adequate braking time. The easiest way to check is to watch the vehicle pass something, then count the seconds until you pass the same object.

Use Smooth Inputs: Use gentle acceleration, braking, and steering. Avoid sudden movements.

Start Your Braking Early: Apply brakes gradually and well in advance.

Always Look Ahead: Scan the road for hazards like snowplows, icy patches, and deep ruts.

Get Comfortable Recovering From Skids: If you skid, ease off the accelerator to regain traction and steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go.

Don’t Use Cruise Control: As explained above, speeding up shifts weight to the rear wheels, and slowing down will shift weight to the front wheels. Cruise control does both of these things automatically, and will seemingly find the worst times to do so!

Get Winter-Ready At The Borgman Service Center in Grand Rapids, MI

The two most valuable aspects of diving in West Michigan winters are patience and preparation. Slow down, know your vehicle’s limits, and keep distractions at bay when driving, and you’ll be a winter driving pro in no time. However, you’re only as prepared as your vehicle, so if you’ve been putting off that new set of tires or living with squeaky, streaky windshield wipers, schedule an appointment with the Borgman Service Center today. We service all makes and models, and your vehicle will be inspected, maintained, and repaired by our factory-trained technicians.

We hope to see you soon, and drive safely!

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