As fall transitions into winter, drivers in North Idaho should prepare to confront a host of weather-related challenges on the road. From heavy rain to sleet, deep snow to icy roads, and the darkness that descends early during the season, it’s essential to be prepared and equipped with the knowledge to drive safely in these conditions. 

At Mike White Ford, we understand how important it is to get where you need to go, no matter the weather. Our dealerships in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint carry a large inventory of 4 x 4 and AWD Ford vehicles in stock to help our north Idaho customers safely navigate our weather and our roads. We also stock up on winter vehicle accessories so our customers can prepare for the season. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for winter driving.

There are two aspects to driving safely in Idaho winter road conditions. The first is properly preparing your vehicle, and the second is knowing how to drive under those conditions. 

Vehicle Preparation for Winter

Before venturing out into the winter wonderland, make sure your vehicle is ready to tackle the elements:

  • Tires: Invest in winter tires with deep treads. These tires offer better grip on snow and ice, significantly improving your vehicle’s stability and stopping power.
  • Brakes: Ensure your brakes are in excellent working condition. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are especially crucial for maintaining control on slippery surfaces.
  • Lights: Check all lights, including headlights, taillights, and brake lights. Visibility is often reduced in winter, so proper lighting is vital.
  • Fluids: Maintain adequate levels of windshield washer fluid, antifreeze, and engine oil. Cold weather can cause fluids to freeze or become less effective.
  • Battery: Cold weather can put extra strain on your battery. Get it checked and replace it if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan.
  • Carry Emergency Supplies: Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle. This should include blankets, a flashlight, extra clothing, non-perishable snacks, and a first-aid kit. 
  • Charge Your Phone: Before getting on the road, ensure your phone is fully charged. If you get stuck, get in an accident, or encounter a vehicle problem, you’ll need your phone to communicate with emergency services or others who can help.

Driving Techniques For Challenging Weather Conditions

Once your vehicle is ready, you must adapt your driving habits to match the weather conditions. Remember that safety is always your first concern. The following practices will help ensure that you stay safe this winter.

  • Know Your Vehicle: Understanding how your vehicle handles in slippery conditions is crucial. If you have never handled winter driving or if you have never driven your vehicle in winter conditions, practice in an empty parking lot to become more familiar with its behavior.
  • Stay Informed: Check weather and road conditions before your journey. If conditions worsen, consider delaying your trip, finding an alternate route, or canceling.
  • Defrost and Clear Windows: Ensure all windows are completely clear before driving. Remove ice and snow from your vehicle’s roof, hood, and trunk to prevent it from blowing onto your or other drivers’ windshields.
  • Leave Early: Plan ahead and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Rushing in poor weather can lead to poor decisions and increased stress.
  • Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt.
  • Recognize Road Conditions: Pay attention to the road surface. If you see patches of black ice or slush, proceed cautiously and avoid sudden maneuvers.
  • Use Your Lights: Keep your headlights on, even during the day, to increase your visibility to other drivers.
  • Distractions: Put away your phone, avoid eating, and focus solely on driving. Any distractions can lead to accidents, especially in less-than-ideal conditions.
  • Moderate Speed: Slow down! Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and the potential for ice make it crucial to drive at a safe and manageable speed.
  • Smooth Driving Techniques: Gentle inputs are essential. Avoid abrupt acceleration, braking, or steering movements, which can lead to loss of control. Gradual and deliberate actions are your best bet.
  • Increase Following Distance: Leave more space between your vehicle and the one in front. Stopping distances can increase significantly on slippery roads.
  • Be Cautious on Bridges and Overpasses: Being exposed to frigid temperatures from all directions, these tend to freeze first, so approach and cross them with extra care.
  • Respect Other Drivers: Remember that everyone on the road is dealing with the same weather conditions. Be patient, courteous, and forgiving.
  • Adapt and Adjust: If conditions become too treacherous or visibility drops to the point that you cannot see the road, pull into a safe location and wait for the weather to improve.
  • Skid Control: If you start to skid, steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes or overcorrecting.
  • Stay Calm: Even with the utmost caution, emergencies can still occur. If you do encounter trouble, do not panic. Take a deep breath, keep your cool, and think rationally. Remember that your and others’ safety and well-being may depend on you managing the situation. When you think clearly, you can improve a situation by rendering aid where needed, summoning help, and keeping everyone warm and out of harm’s way. 

Safety is Your Top Priority

Driving in challenging winter weather can be intimidating, so stay home if you lack the confidence to go out in bad weather or if your vehicle is not equipped for winter road conditions. However, with the right preparations and a cautious approach, you can navigate safely through harsh winter weather to go out and enjoy the holiday season with friends or the many winter activities North Idaho offers.

At Mike White Ford, we are ready to help you prepare your vehicle for the winter with a brake check, tune-up service, winter tires, and other services and accessories. And if you need a new ride that can handle winter roads, contact our sales department. But whatever you do, when driving out and about this winter, take your time, stay focused, and make every effort to ensure you and your fellow travelers stay safe.

Skip to content