Top 5 winter driving tips for new drivers

Make sure teenage drivers are up to speed on safe driving practices. Teens represent just 13 per cent of the licensed driving population but account for approximately 20 per cent of all motor vehicle injuries and deaths. 

It comes down to a lack of experience. “Driver inexperience is a common factor in almost all kinds of traffic accidents,” says Hassan Al-Khairalla, operations manager of automotive services at CAA North & East Ontario (CAANEO). Inexperience can be even more dangerous with winter’s inclement weather and the hazardous road conditions that come with it. 

Here are five winter driving tips from CAA’s resident automotive expert.

Don't be afraid to cancel plans

Drivers should keep an eye on weather reports and be willing to cancel their plans because of poor road conditions. "If the weather is bad, just stay home," Al-Khairalla says.

Remove snow and ice

Driving around with snow blowing off your car is hazardous to you and your passengers. But clearing snow off your car's roof and hood is more than courteous—it's the law. You can be fined $110 for failing to do so. 

"Maintaining good visibility is key to safe driving," Al-Khairalla says. "Drivers should have an unobstructed view in all directions." 

Slow down

Slick roadways necessitate leaving more space between vehicles as tires have less traction. "To come to a stop on slippery roads, gently press down on the brake pedal," Al-Khairalla says. "When accelerating, your tires will spin, so press down gently on the accelerator to go." Don't forget to drive with extra caution on bridges and overpasses, as they usually freeze first.

Watch for black ice

New drivers need to be aware that wet-looking pavement may actually be black ice. This deceptive condition usually occurs when the temperature drops in the late afternoon or evening, which can cause melting snow or rain to turn into ice on the roadway. 

"Pay attention to changing temperature conditions," Al-Khairalla says. If you do hit black ice, remain calm and allow the car to pass over the ice." That means trying to keep the steering wheel straight and not slamming on the brakes.

Prepare for the unexpected

Does your teen know what to do if he or she is involved in a traffic collision? Take time to go through the steps with them before they head out on their own. And consider finding an empty parking lot to practice stopping on snow and ice in a safe and controlled manner. The more practice, the better.

Stay safe!

Make sure your teen is protected on the road by adding them as Associate Members to your account.