What to Do if Your Vehicle Gets Stuck in the Snow: A Practical Guide
Bryna Christensen • December 18, 2024
Winter driving
Winter driving can be unpredictable, and even the most cautious drivers might find themselves stuck in the snow. At Eureka Brake & Automotive, we want to ensure you’re prepared for any situation. Here’s a practical guide on what to do if your vehicle gets stuck in the snow.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation more difficult to handle. Take a deep breath and assess your surroundings. Ensure your vehicle is safely out of the way of any potential traffic.
2. Clear Snow from Around Your Tires
Use a shovel or any available tool to clear snow away from your tires. Focus on the area in front of and behind each tire to create a path for traction. If you don’t have a shovel, your hands or a sturdy object like a piece of wood can work in a pinch.
3. Improve Tire Traction
Traction is key to getting unstuck. Here are some common items that can help:
- Sand, Kitty Litter, or Salt: Spread these materials around your tires to increase grip.
- Car Mats: Place your vehicle’s floor mats in front of or behind the drive wheels. This can give your tires something to grab onto
- Cardboard or Wood Planks: These can also provide the necessary traction.
4. Rock the Vehicle Gently
If you can’t drive out immediately, try rocking your vehicle back and forth. Here’s how:
a) Shift into the lowest gear: Use ‘Drive’ or ‘1’ for automatic transmissions and first gear for manuals.
b) Accelerate Slowly: Press the gas pedal gently to avoid spinning your tires.
c) Reverse and Drive: Shift between reverse and drive, moving a little farther each time. The rocking motion can help free your vehicle from the snow.
5. Use Snow Chains or Traction Devices
If you have snow chains or other traction devices, this is the time to use them. They can provide the extra grip needed to get out of a tricky situation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. Check out last weeks’ post on How to install tire chains.
6. Release Air from Tires (With Caution)
Releasing a small amount of air from your tires can increase the surface area and improve traction. However, do this with caution, and don’t let out too much air. Aim to reduce the pressure by only a few pounds.
7. Call for Help
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get your vehicle unstuck, it might be time to call for help. Contact a roadside assistance service or a local tow company. Make sure to stay with your vehicle and keep your phone charged while you wait for help to arrive.
To avoid getting stuck in the future, consider these preventive measures:
- Winter Tires: Invest in a good set of winter tires for better traction.
- Snow Chains: Keep a set of snow chains in your vehicle for emergencies.
- Emergency Kit: Carry an emergency kit with essentials like a shovel, sand, kitty litter, a flashlight, and blankets.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and ready for winter conditions. Regularly check your tires, brakes, and battery.
At Eureka Brake & Automotive, we’re here to help you stay safe on the road. If you need assistance preparing your vehicle for winter or require any automotive services, don’t hesitate to visit us. Our experienced technicians can provide expert advice and top-notch service to keep you moving, no matter the weather.
*Stay connected with us on social media for updates, tips, and special offers throughout the year. We love hearing from you and are always here to help with any automotive questions or needs you might have.
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