In winter on snow and ice, many drivers often drive with a feeling of discomfort in their stomach. When we brake or turn the steering wheel in snow, we often have less confidence in the car, even if we have prepared the car optimally for the winter (here’s how to do it). Sensitivity is often lacking and the vehicle is less stable on white than on black roads.
Accordingly, cornering in snow and ice is a real challenge. But with five tips from TCS head trainer Adrian Suter, you too can hit every corner in winter.
set the tempo
Basically, you should drive a little slower on snow-covered roads. The challenge is to find the right balance to avoid becoming a traffic jam. If you are alone on the road, we recommend performing a test brake to see what the braking distance is under current conditions. Brake earlier before cornering, as the braking distance on snow is much longer than on dry roads.
emotional maneuvers
Perform all driving maneuvers smoothly and evenly. Try to drive at a constant speed, especially when cornering, and correct the steering angle as little as possible. Accelerate only when the front wheels are straight again. Hard braking, gas bursts or jerky steering will make the vehicle unstable and cause it to skid.
Immediate counter redirect
If you are still slipping and the rear of the vehicle is off the road, you should counter-steer and brake at the same time. When they slow down, there will be more time to react and it will be easier to catch the car again.
Rely on technology
If you start to slide, smooth and steady braking ends. Then bold emergency braking is required. Rely on ABS and ESP electronic control systems. The anti-lock braking system and the electronic stability program respond optimally to the situation and rebalance the vehicle.
However, it is very important that you get stuck on the first point and not be too fast. Because above a certain speed, all electronics reach the limits of physics and can no longer prevent a take-off.
Correct imaging technique
Always look where you want to go. The car will go in that direction. In other words: at the bend, look for the corner exit. If there is oncoming traffic, look beyond the oncoming car in your lane. And if you start to slip, don’t look at the ditch or the tree. Look at the road, the car will go there and the situation will improve.