Snowfall can be both beautiful and dangerous. While it transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, it can also create hazardous conditions for drivers. Snow and ice can make roads slippery and unpredictable, increasing the risk of accidents, particularly in areas like Alaska, where winter weather is extreme and prolonged. For drivers, especially those who may not be accustomed to such conditions, the key to staying safe is understanding how to adjust driving habits for snowy roads.
Anchorage Alaska’s winter months are notorious for snow-related accidents, and understanding how to navigate these conditions is essential for keeping yourself, your passengers, and others on the road safe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through critical safety measures and driving strategies that can make a big difference in snowy conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned Alaskan driver or someone preparing for their first winter in the state, knowing how to drive safely on snowy roads can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
The Importance of Checking Weather Updates
Before hitting the road during the winter months, one of the most crucial steps you can take is to stay informed about the weather. Snowstorms, icy conditions, and sudden temperature drops can dramatically alter driving conditions, sometimes in a matter of minutes. By keeping an eye on weather updates, you can anticipate potential hazards and avoid unnecessary risks.
Rely on the National Weather Service
The National Weather Service (NWS) is an invaluable resource for drivers during the winter months. They provide timely updates, including snow storm warnings, advisories for icy conditions, and other weather-related alerts. Monitoring these reports before you begin your journey is a critical step in staying safe on the roads.
You can access these updates through several mediums:
- Radio Broadcasts: Local radio stations often provide real-time weather updates. This is especially useful when you are already on the road, as listening to the radio allows you to stay informed without taking your eyes off the road.
- Online Platforms: Many drivers use apps or websites to check weather conditions before getting into their cars. The NWS website, along with various weather apps, offers detailed forecasts and can send alerts directly to your smartphone.
- Television: For a more comprehensive weather report, television news channels are another reliable source. Watching the weather segment before heading out can provide a good overview of expected conditions throughout the day.
Staying informed can help you make educated decisions about whether to embark on your journey or delay it. In cases of extreme weather, it might be safer to postpone your travel or take an alternative route.
Plan Your Route Carefully
Driving in winter demands extensive planning that goes beyond simply getting behind the wheel and heading out. When snow and ice are expected, sticking to your usual route may compromise your safety and potentially breach legal obligations to drive cautiously. Roads that are ordinarily in excellent condition might become hazardous after heavy snow, necessitating reduced speeds to prevent accidents. Furthermore, some highways may remain unplowed, and navigating them without appropriate speed adjustments can lead to legal infractions for unsafe driving practices under severe weather conditions.
Avoid Unmaintained Roads and Highways
Certain roads in Alaska are particularly dangerous during the winter because they receive little to no maintenance after heavy snowfall. These roads can quickly become impassable, leading to accidents or stranded vehicles. The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities regularly issues warnings about which roads to avoid, and these warnings should be heeded.
Some of the most hazardous roads include:
- Nome-Teller Highway: Open only to Milepost 8.
- Nome-Taylor Highway: Open only to Milepost 13.
- Council Road: Open only to Milepost 3.
- Denali Highway: Known for snow drifts and limited visibility.
- Denali Park Highway: Extremely dangerous during blizzards.
- Top-of-the-World Highway: Its elevation and exposure to elements make it treacherous.
- Taylor Highway: Often subject to severe weather and snow accumulation.
- Glacier Creek Road
- Saint Mary’s Road
These roads are often closed or severely restricted from October to May, making them particularly dangerous during winter months. Even if a road is open, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe to drive on. It’s always best to plan your route with caution and avoid these unmaintained roads whenever possible.
Use a GPS or Mapping App
Using a GPS or a reliable mapping app can help you identify which roads are open and cleared. Some apps also offer real-time updates on traffic and road conditions, which can alert you to closures or dangerous sections of your route. Make sure your app is set to alert you about winter road advisories or detours, and always have an alternative route planned in case conditions worsen.
Speed Control: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
One of the most critical factors in safe winter driving is effective speed control. Legally, drivers are obligated not only to adhere to posted speed limits but also to adjust their speed according to prevailing road conditions. Posted speed limits are established for optimal weather scenarios and may not account for the hazards presented by snow and ice. Operating a vehicle at these speeds during adverse conditions can be considered negligent and may result in legal liability if an accident occurs. Courts often interpret failure to reduce speed in inclement weather as a breach of the duty of care owed to other road users. Therefore, slowing down during winter conditions is not merely a safety recommendation—it’s a legal requirement to ensure the well-being of all road users.
The Dangers of Speeding on Snowy Roads
Driving too fast in snowy conditions can have disastrous consequences. Here are a few reasons why you should reduce your speed during snowy weather:
- Loss of Traction: Even the best snow tires or all-wheel-drive vehicles can lose traction on slick roads if you’re going too fast. Ice and snow can significantly reduce your vehicle’s ability to grip the road, making it harder to stop or steer.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Snow and ice increase your stopping distance. At high speeds, it becomes much harder to stop in time to avoid an obstacle or a hazard. Driving slower allows you to stop more safely if needed.
- Limited Visibility: Snowstorms can drastically reduce visibility, making it difficult to see the road ahead. Driving at a slower pace gives you more time to react if you encounter a sharp turn, an obstruction, or another vehicle.
- Risk of Animal Collisions: Alaska is home to a variety of large wildlife, including moose, deer, and caribou. These animals frequently cross roads and highways, and hitting one can be extremely dangerous. Moose, in particular, can weigh up to 1,600 pounds, and a collision with one can be fatal for both the driver and the animal. Driving at a reduced speed increases your chances of spotting wildlife in time to stop.
- Drifting and Skidding: Snow and ice make it easy for cars to drift out of their lanes or even off the road entirely. Slowing down can help you maintain control, even if your vehicle starts to slide.
Speed Limits in Winter: The Law and Common Sense
Even if there is no posted speed limit for snowy conditions, the law generally requires drivers to adjust their speed based on road conditions. In many places, including Alaska, drivers can be ticketed for driving too fast for conditions, even if they are within the legal speed limit. This means that during snow or ice, you are legally obligated to slow down.
The general rule of thumb for winter driving is to reduce your speed by at least 30% from the posted limit. For example, if the speed limit is 55 mph, you should aim to drive no more than 40 mph on snowy roads, depending on the severity of the conditions.
Vehicle Maintenance: Prepare for the Snow
Proper vehicle maintenance is essential for safe winter driving. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the side of the road in freezing temperatures because of a preventable mechanical failure. Regular maintenance checks are a must, especially as winter approaches.
Tires: Your First Line of Defense
Winter tires or all-season tires designed for snow are crucial for maintaining traction on icy roads. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Worn tires can significantly reduce your ability to stop and steer in snow.
- Snow Tires vs. All-Season Tires: Snow tires are specifically designed to perform well in icy and snowy conditions, offering better traction than standard all-season tires. If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, it’s worth investing in a set of snow tires.
- Tire Pressure: Cold weather can cause your tire pressure to drop, reducing traction. Check your tire pressure regularly throughout the winter months and inflate your tires as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Windshield Wipers and Fluid
Good visibility is crucial in snowy conditions, so make sure your windshield wipers are in excellent condition. Replace old wiper blades before winter begins, and keep an extra set in your vehicle in case they wear out during the season.
Use a windshield washer fluid that is rated for freezing temperatures. Regular washer fluid can freeze on your windshield, obstructing your view instead of clearing it.
Battery and Engine
Cold weather can take a toll on your car’s battery and engine. Before winter starts, have your battery tested to ensure it’s strong enough to handle freezing temperatures. You should also have your engine checked for any potential issues that could worsen in the cold, such as fluid leaks or worn belts.
Defensive Driving in Snowy Conditions
Even if you follow all of the above precautions, you still have to account for the actions of other drivers. Defensive driving is key to staying safe in any conditions, but it becomes even more critical when the roads are slick with snow and ice.
Increase Your Following Distance
Tailgating is always dangerous, but in snowy conditions, it can be deadly. Increase your following distance to at least five to six seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. This extra space gives you more time to stop or steer if the car in front of you suddenly slows down or stops.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Jerky movements, such as sudden braking or quick lane changes, can cause your vehicle to lose traction on snowy roads. Instead, drive smoothly and make gradual adjustments to your speed and direction. If you do need to brake, apply gentle pressure to avoid skidding.
Use Low Beams in Heavy Snow
During heavy snowfall, high beams can reflect off the snow and reduce visibility. Use your low beams instead, and make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and functioning properly before hitting the road.
What to Do in Case of an Accident
Despite taking every precaution, accidents can still happen. If you are involved in an accident, the most important thing to do is stay calm and take immediate steps to ensure your safety.
- Move Your Vehicle Off the Road: If possible, move your vehicle out of the path of traffic to avoid further collisions.
- Call for Help: Contact local authorities and, if necessary, emergency services. Provide them with your location and details about the accident.
- Stay in Your Vehicle: If it’s safe to do so, remain in your vehicle until help arrives. Standing outside on a snowy highway can be dangerous, as other vehicles may not see you in time to stop.
If you or someone you know has been hurt in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call us for a free consultation at (907)-416-9066.
Visit our office at 2525 Gambell Street #410, Anchorage, AK 99503 to discuss your case with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process after a car accident.