Driving in snow, ice, and fog in the local mountains to your favorite ski or snow play area can be dangerous. By following the recommendations below will help you arrive safely.
- Time: Give yourself plenty of extra time. Speed limits are for perfect, dry conditions but on windy mountain roads during ice and snow, and low visibility from fog makes conditions even more dangerous. Even slowing to half the speed limit can be dangerous, so maintain an even slower speed to allow for safe turning and stopping.
- Vision: Take the time to clear all windows of snow, ice or fog before starting out. Also clear any snow off the hood - it comes loose when driving.
- Lights: Even though you can see, drive with low-beam headlights in snow, fog or just winter murk. Keep all lenses free of dirt by wiping them periodically. Dirty headlights can cut visibility by 50 percent or more
- Tires: Be sure your tires have adequate tread for traction in snow and to reduce the risk of hydroplaning in rain or puddles on the road. Remember that every time the outside temperature drops 10 degrees, the tire air pressure goes down about one pound per square inch and under-inflated tires are the major cause of tire failure.
- Ice/Freezing Rain: At 30 degrees ice is twice as slippery as it is at 0 degrees. It also forms first and lasts longer on bridges and in the shade in mountain areas. If you hit an unexpected patch, do not brake, accelerate, or downshift. First, let up on your accelerator and then, let your vehicle "roll" through the slippery area.
- Skidding: If you go into a skid, act quickly by taking your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction the back of the vehicle is skidding. In other words, if you want your vehicle to go right, turn right. If you want it to go left, turn left. Hold the steering wheel firmly and turn gently, not sharp.
- Following Distance: Maintain at least three times the normal following distance on snow or ice. If you are being followed too closely, maintain an extra distance behind the vehicle ahead so that you can slow down or brake gradually. Be prepared to adjust speed and /or stop to avoid colliding with the vehicle in front of you.
- Deer: Bad weather can cause deer to be on the move. Be particularly alert when traveling in known areas of deer migration, so slow down even more when you see deer crossing signs or deer in the area.
- Snow Chain Installation: Make sure your chains fit your vehicle and know how to install them before driving to the mountains. Always carry chains in your vehicle while in mountain areas. Many California mountain highways have chain installation locations, but often the roads might become icy before and installation is necessary before these locations. When installing chains, pull over in a safe location, as far off the road as possible.
- Stay Clear of Plows and Sanders: Watch out for these vehicles as you drive. They do not travel at a high speed, so slow down when you see them. Plows and scrapers will pull over periodically to let traffic pass, but it is risky to pass on the left of a snowplow because of blowing snow and oncoming traffic that might not be able to slow down in the snow. The best advice is to stay three car lengths behind plows and sanders.
- Walking on Ice or Snow: After being in a warm vehicle, the soles of shoes or boots are warm enough to melt snow or ice, creating a film of water between the sole and the snow or ice surface. Be especially cautious for the first five minutes after leaving the vehicle. When walking on snow or ice, use short steps and keep your hands out of your pockets. These factors will help you maintain your balance. If you do fall, tuck your arms close to your body and roll with the fall.
Types of Snow Tires & Traction Devices (Chains)
California Chain & Installation Requirements
California Snow & Ice Control Program Brochure
California Mountain Pass Closures
California Highway Information
Winter Driving Preparation (FEMA)
