Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Deep snow: Getting out safely
After winter storms, deep snow drifts can make driving hazardous and inconvenient. If you do get stuck, here are some tips to help get your vehicle out safely.
Be prepared
Keep a shovel handy in your trunk to clear snow, along with helpful traction aids such as tire chains, traction pads, old carpeting or wood, sand or cat litter.
Assess the situation
Get out of the car and have a look at where the snow
is holding you back. It’s likely blocking the tires but it may also
be clogged against the chassis. Then decide if moving forward or backwards
is the most effective route.
Clear the path
Dig out a path, in front of and behind the obstructed tires. If the patches right under your tires are slippery, put down some traction material to give the tires some grip on the ground. If your chassis is blocked by snow, remove it as best as you can.
Gain momentum to drive out
Straighten your wheel. Gently accelerate either forward or in reverse – whichever gives you the first bit of traction and momentum. Don’t spin your tires. Go as far as you can, then hit the brakes so you won’t slip back, and then shift back in the other direction. This forward and backward motion should eventually free your vehicle.
Push safely with help
If you can’t get your vehicle clear after a few
tries, ask for help. One
or two people pushing will make it
easier to drive out. Take extra care that you can see
and communicate with your helpers. Ask them to not
stand directly behind the powered wheels, as they can
be hit by thrown gravel or other materials.
For more information, watch The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or visit the following sections on this website:
- Hazardous Conditions in Driving Tips
- Driving to Conditions in Driving Tips
