Love it or hate it, winter is coming, which means winter driving season is, too. Snow, ice, and freezing temps can make getting from point A to point B a little trickier, but with a little preparation and some smart driving habits, you can keep yourself (and everyone else) safer on the roads.
Get Your Car Ready
Before the first big storm hits, give your car a quick once-over. A little extra attention now can save you from a roadside headache later.
- Check your tires – Make sure they’ve got good tread and are properly inflated. If you drive a lot in the winter, think about swapping to winter tires.
- Brakes – If you’ve noticed squeaking or poor response, get them checked out.
- Battery – Cold weather is tough on batteries, so make sure yours is fully charged and in good shape.
- Fluids – Top off your antifreeze, oil, and windshield washer fluid (use the winter kind so it doesn’t freeze).
- Wipers & Defrosters – You’ll want them working well when the snow starts flying.
And don’t forget the inside of your car—having a winter emergency kit can make all the difference if you get stuck. Toss in things like:
- A blanket or extra warm clothes
- Small shovel and ice scraper
- Flashlight and batteries
- Snacks and bottled water
- A bag of sand, salt, or kitty litter for traction
Plan Before You Go
Nebraska winters can be unpredictable. While surprise snowstorms happen, forecasts usually give us a heads-up. Get into the habit of checking the weather before you hit the road.
- If it looks rough, give yourself extra time or even wait it out.
- Be flexible—sometimes staying overnight or leaving earlier is the safer choice.
- Pay attention to road condition reports. If officials say stay home unless it’s necessary, it’s probably best to listen.
Smart Driving Makes a Difference
Even if your car is winter-ready, the way you drive matters just as much.
- Slow it down—snow and ice mean it takes longer to stop.
- Keep your distance—give yourself extra space between you and the car in front of you.
- Brake gently—slamming on the brakes can send you into a skid.
- If you do skid—stay calm, steer gently in the direction you want to go, and avoid overcorrecting.
- Clear it all off—don’t just scrape a peephole in your windshield. Clear all windows, mirrors, headlights, and taillights so you can see and be seen.
- Remember the limits—four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive help with traction, but they don’t make you unstoppable on ice.
Winter driving doesn’t have to be stressful. A little preparation, some planning, and a few adjustments behind the wheel go a long way toward keeping you safe. We can’t stop winter from showing up, but we can make sure we’re ready for it when it does.
