What is the safest driving practice in winter conditions?

In winter conditions, using a slower speed is the safest driving practice primarily because reduced speed gives drivers more time to react to unexpected situations, such as ice patches or sudden stops by other vehicles. When the road is icy or snowy, maintaining control of the vehicle becomes more challenging, and a slower speed can help prevent skidding and losing traction.

Driving at the same speed as normal, for example, can be dangerous. This may lead to a lack of control on slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents. Following closely behind other vehicles is also risky, especially in winter, as it does not allow adequate braking distance. If the vehicle in front stops suddenly, you may not have enough time to react safely. Turning off traction control is not advisable in these conditions, as traction control systems are designed to help maintain vehicle stability and control on slippery surfaces.

Overall, adjusting your speed and driving cautiously are key practices to ensure safety when navigating winter driving conditions.