Driving in snow or ice It is not a simple task, but anyone can do it if they have the specific knowledge and care. How to brake and accelerate, whether to use chains or not and what gear to drive in are some of the points to pay attention to.
What to do behind the wheel if it snows
- Smooth maneuvers. It is the ABC for this surface: it is recommended to avoid sudden and violent movements during acceleration and braking.
- Slow down. To decelerate, it is advisable to use the engine brake with the gearbox (a lowering) and not use the brake pedal. This reduces the chances of skidding.
- Increase braking distance. With ice or snow on the road, extend the distance from the vehicle in front of you to eight or ten seconds. It is double what is recommended on dry asphalt.
- Use the highest gear possible. This way, the least possible force is transmitted to the wheels when the car accelerates. If you can start in second or third, the better. On slopes, the lowest gear. It is so that the engine holds the vehicle and avoids using the brake.
- If it snows, in addition to the losses, it is advisable turn on the fog lights (as long as the vehicle equips them).
- Chains. It is essential for vehicles that do not have specific covers for the occasion. The most traditional are made of cemented steel, but there are also liquid and textile ones. Its function is to ensure traction. But be careful: they cannot be used at all times. They should be placed only when necessary. Otherwise they could cause damage to the tire and the vehicle.
- Remove snow. From time to time it is advisable to stop and remove the snow accumulated in the wheel arches so that it does not compact. That could block the steering.
- If you can’t, you can’t. It is preferable to stop, stay in a safe place and continue the trip at another time when conditions are very unfavorable for driving. It is key to find out the state of the road and the weather before starting any trip.
How likely is it that snow will fall in AMBA this weekend?
As stated Matías Bertolottimeteorologist for TN and Channel 13, this weekend there will be no snow in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area (AMBA) or on the Atlantic Coast. However, snowfall is expected in certain areas of the country in the next few hours.
“Snow is expected during the weekend in areas of Jump, Jujuy and Tucumán†the meteorologist commented for TN. Then he added that in Córdoba and saint Louiswhere there was isolated snowfall During Thursday, snow is also expected for Sunday, in isolation.