Winter Driving Tips from Your Friends at Go Nissan North

Winter driving can be tough on the nerves, and even tougher on your insurance premiums if you aren’t careful. Luckily, your friends at Go Nissan North have a handful of helpful hints to make this difficult driving season all the more bearable and accident free. Buckle up while we look at ways you can make winter driving substantially less stressful.

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. As a matter of fact, just drive slower than under normal conditions.
• Use winter tires—we can’t stress this one enough! Your all-season tires start to lose grip when the weather hits 7 degrees celsius or below, meaning your stopping power is compromised.
• On that note, double your normal following distance to allow yourself extra time and space while attempting to brake on ice. If you do start to slide, remember to look and steer your vehicle in the direction you want it to drive(while being careful not to oversteer).
• If you can, avoid using your brakes as much as possible. If your automatic vehicle is equipped with any kind of manual shifting, learn how to downshift and use your engine brakes.

• Make sure your tires are properly inflated, and never (ever) use cruise control when driving on snow, or any other slippery surface.
• Make sure your vehicle’s service and maintenance is up to date for the upcoming cold weather, and that you are using the proper fluids. Always having gas in the tank will also keep you from being stuck on the road on those extra cold days.
• If you are stuck on the road, for whatever reason, ensure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle. This kit should include blankets, gloves, snacks, or whatever else you might need if your vehicle breaks down.