What to Do During a Blizzard as a Driver

Battling the Elements: How to Drive Safely During a Blizzard

Picture this: You’re all set for a cozy winter evening, sipping on your hot cocoa, and suddenly it starts to snow—big fluffy flakes that dance through the air, enchanting everyone. But wait! Before you grab your keys and head out for that last-minute grocery run, ask yourself: “Is it really worth it?” When winter storms ramp up, especially blizzards, it’s critical to rethink your driving plans.

Why Blizzards Aren't Just Heavy Snow

Okay, let's break it down. Blizzards aren’t just a little bit of snow piling up; they come with winds that howl like a banshee and visibility that can disappear faster than your cousin’s New Year’s resolutions. In essence, a blizzard transforms ordinary roads into treacherous tracks fraught with danger. So, it begs the question—what should drivers do during a blizzard?

Stay Off the Roads Unless Absolutely Necessary

The golden rule during a blizzard is simple: stay off the roads unless it's absolutely necessary. Yes, I know it sounds a bit dramatic, but hear me out. Traveling when visibility shrinks and roads are slick like a freshly buttered pan is a recipe for disaster. Would you leap into a freezing pool without checking the temperature first? Exactly! Just because you might drive okay in normal conditions doesn’t mean you’re ready to take on a blizzard.

Think of it this way: when the weather turns hostile, your safety—and the safety of others—should be your first priority. So, if you can put off that trip to the store or delay your drive until the weather clears, do it!

The Dangers of Driving Normally

Now, let’s talk about why driving normally during a blizzard is not only unwise but downright risky. You may think, “Hey, I can handle this. I’ll just keep up with traffic.” Here’s the kicker: everyone else is in the same boat, and some may be less equipped to handle those slick conditions. It’s like being in a movie where no one knows their lines, and the lead actor just got eaten by an unexpected monster. Chaos ensues!

All too often, that “just going with the flow” attitude can lead to accidents—because those who are driving may not have the proper tires or simply aren’t in the right mindset. When conditions are hazardous, what seems normal becomes a potential disaster waiting to happen.

High Beams: A No-Go in Snow

Speaking of visibility, you might be tempted to use your high beam headlights to cut through the falling snow. But hold your horses there! It turns out that using high beams in heavy snow can create an unexpected glare by reflecting off those snowflakes. Instead of illuminating the path ahead, you just might blind yourself, further eroding your ability to see where you’re going. It's like trying to read a book in a dark room while someone’s shining a flashlight right in your eyes—uncomfortable and ultimately unhelpful.

In snowy conditions, low beams do the job so much better. They reduce glare and allow you to see where you're going without adding to the chaotic mess of white that can obscure your view.

Keeping Your Distance

Let’s get one thing straight: tailgating during a blizzard? Not the brightest idea! Staying close to other vehicles might make you feel safer—like you’re part of a little driving brigade—but it actually increases the risk of collisions. Why? Because stopping distances in snow and ice can multiply, like those pesky chores that seem to stack up when you procrastinate.

Ever tried stopping on a slip-and-slide? Exactly. When roads turn icy, give yourself a ton of space between you and the vehicle ahead—that buffer zone could just save your life. So, think about it. Rather than tailing that car just in front of you, consider backing off a little. After all, you don’t need to contribute to the region’s “unintentional bumper car” attraction!

What’s a Driver to Do?

Now that we’ve painted a picture of what NOT to do, what’s the takeaway? If you can, just don’t drive. Seriously. But if you absolutely must head out, make sure you’re prepared! Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind when facing those gnarly blizzard conditions:

1. Check the Forecast: If a blizzard’s on the horizon, it might be time to hunker down and binge-watch your favorite series.

2. Prepare Your Vehicle: Make sure it’s in tip-top shape—filled gas tank, good tires, and fully-stocked with emergency supplies.

3. Let Someone Know Your Plans: Just like you'd tell a buddy where you’re headed, let someone know if you're venturing out (especially in a storm).

4. Drive Smoothly: Avoid abrupt movements. Think of it like dancing the cha-cha rather than a wild jive. Slow, careful motions will go a long way.

5. Have an Escape Plan: Know your routes, and be aware of rest areas or places to stop if conditions worsen.

Next time you find yourself greeting a snowy landscape, remember these points. A little caution goes a long way towards keeping not just you safe, but everyone else on the road too.

Driving during a blizzard doesn’t have to be an exercise in chaos. Approach it with the right mindset, heed the warnings, and keep your operations smooth and steady. Think of it as your personal weather dance—one slip and you might just find yourself face-first in the snow! Stay warm, stay safe, and let the snowflakes fall where they may, while you enjoy the serenity from the comfort of home.