The most useful winter-driving decision often happens before departure: can the trip wait until roads and visibility improve? If travel is necessary, combine the forecast with current road reports, your vehicle's instructions and an emergency plan. This guide is for U.S. passenger-vehicle travel; commercial, mountain and chain-control routes may have additional requirements.
Decide whether and when to leave
Check the forecast for the whole journey, including higher elevations and the return trip. Open the relevant state transportation department's road-condition service for closures, restrictions and reported surface conditions. A navigation app's arrival estimate does not establish that the route is open or suitable.
Before committing, answer three questions: could the trip be postponed, is there a suitable route, and is there a place to stop before conditions deteriorate? The NHTSA winter-driving guide recommends delaying nonessential travel when roads are in poor condition and allowing time for disruptions.
Prepare the actual vehicle
Have battery, tires, wipers, defrosters, lights and fluids checked before winter. Use tire pressures specified for the vehicle, measured as directed in its manual; the pressure shown on the tire sidewall is not the vehicle's recommended setting. Ask a qualified service provider about tire condition and suitable winter equipment for the route.
Cold weather affects batteries and can reduce electric-vehicle range. Plan charging or fuel stops with room for heating use and delays. NHTSA's guidance covers tire pressure, battery checks and cold-weather range, while the NWS winter-preparation page adds vehicle and emergency-supply checks.
Before moving, clear ice and snow from the vehicle, including windows, lights, roof and other areas that can shed snow onto traffic. Confirm that floor mats are secured and controls move freely. Review how the exact vehicle uses antilock brakes, traction control, winter modes and driver assistance; learn these controls while parked.
Leave space and make smooth inputs
Reduce speed for the surface and visibility, and increase following distance. Accelerate, steer and brake smoothly so you have time to respond to changing traction. Keep clear of snowplows and their working space. Four driven wheels can help a vehicle move; stopping and cornering still depend on the tires and the road.
For a vehicle with antilock brakes, NHTSA advises firm, continuous pressure on the brake pedal. Follow the owner's manual for the vehicle's system; do not substitute a generic pumping or threshold-braking routine. The NWS during-storm guidance also advises easing off the accelerator and steering toward the desired direction if the vehicle begins to skid.
If visibility or traction deteriorates beyond what you can manage, look for an appropriate safe stopping location and follow road-authority instructions. Avoid interacting with a phone while driving. A passenger can check conditions, or you can do so after stopping safely.
Pack for an unexpected wait
| Need | Examples to carry | Check before departure |
|---|---|---|
| Communication | Charged phone, compatible cable and backup power. | Share route and expected arrival with a contact. |
| Warmth and basic needs | Blankets, warm clothing, water, food and necessary medication. | Account for all passengers and the possibility of a long delay. |
| Visibility and basic equipment | Flashlight, scraper, snow brush, small shovel and appropriate warning devices. | Know how to use them; pack where they are accessible. |
| Vehicle support | Manufacturer-appropriate roadside equipment and assistance details. | Check compatibility and the service area of your assistance provider. |
Adapt the kit to the people traveling, weather and distance from help. Equipment is useful only when using it is safe; carrying a shovel does not make working beside fast traffic or in severe cold a good choice. Keep the contact's instructions simple: when to expect you and what to do if you cannot be reached.
If the vehicle becomes stranded
Call for help and give your location, direction of travel, vehicle description and passenger needs. Use a mile marker or nearby identifiable feature if available. In immediate danger, contact emergency services and follow their directions.
NWS guidance generally advises staying with a vehicle stuck in a winter storm because walking away in blowing snow can quickly cause disorientation. Make the vehicle visible to rescuers and avoid overexertion. For a combustion engine used for heat, keep the exhaust clear of snow, open a window slightly and run the engine intermittently as official guidance directs. Do not run it in an enclosed area. Conditions around the vehicle and instructions from responders can change what you should do.
For electric vehicles, use the manufacturer's cold-weather and emergency instructions and tell responders the remaining charge. After the incident, replace used supplies and have any damage or persistent warning lights checked before another trip.