Tips For Staying Safe While Driving An SUV In The Winter

Winter weather is making an appearance throughout the nation. In some places that means large amounts of snow will likely soon fall. To help get around easier, some people who reside in Connecticut choose to drive SUVs. While they may make it easier to get through the snow, they are not invincible. It is important that those who drive them are aware of this and do not get overconfident on the roads. In this post we will provide some SUV winter driving tips.

SUVs should be equipped with the right tires. In most cases standard winter tires will work well. Because these kind of tires are specifically designed for driving in snow and ice, chains are not necessary. It is important to keep the tires inflated to the proper PSI, and the pressure should be checked periodically. The right tires properly maintained could keep an SUV from sliding of the road.

Accidents could occur as an SUV attempts a turn. In addition to sliding, top heavy SUVs can tip over. This can be prevented by slowing before the turn by gently applying the break. Acceleration should be applied following the turn, not during it.

As is the case with any vehicle driving in the ice and snow, care should be given to placing an appropriate distance between an SUV and other cars on the road. If maintaining this distance requires driving at a slower speed than is posted, this is the approach that should be taken. Generally two to three car lengths will suffice.

Traction is key to keeping an SUV on the road. This can be accomplished by adding weight to the vehicle. To add weight without sacrificing space in an SUV, keep the gas tank full. Since each gallon of gasoline weighs six pounds, a full 25 gallon tank could add 100 to 150 pounds to the weight of the vehicle.

Winter weather can be dangerous to drive in. Drivers of SUVs who follow these tips could prevent an accident from occurring.