Driving safely in snow and ice is an oxymoron. The safest thing to do when snow or ice is in the forecast is to just stay put. But the fact is the dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and rain is a constant possibility during Virginia’s notoriously fickle winter weather. Sometimes driving in it just can't be avoided. Since most Virginians don't get regular practice driving in these dangerous conditions, learning how to prepare and handle them is wise.
It's so important to stay aware of the latest weather updates in the southwest and north and central Virginia. Before you leave home, check road conditions with alerts and VDOT's free mobile apps (opens in a new window), and always have an emergency car kit.
We have a great survival guide for a Virginia winter storm with official contacts to stay informed. Our guide can help you prepare your home and car and take care after the storm is over.
While the Virginia Department of Transportation (opens in a new window) warns against all unnecessary travel in winter weather, they also have great information to prepare for winter driving.
Good tires are the best defense against unpredictable winter roads. Check your tires and invest in a set of sturdy all-season tires with high traction, good tread depth, and the right air pressure is important.
Here is a checklist for healthy tire travel:
Maybe you've been the victim of snow chunks flying into your windshield from another driver who did not take the time to properly clear their vehicle or you have been the offender because you were in a hurry. This can create a dangerous situation and cause reduced visibility, broken windshields, and even death has occurred from missing this crucial step. It doesn’t just help the drivers around you: cleaning off your own vehicle increases your road visibility and lessens your chance of a collision.
Here are a few tips to do it right:
Dry your wiper blades and make sure your wiper fluid nozzles are clear. They’ll have a lesser chance of icing over during the next storm.
Never pour hot water or use anything sharp on a car covered in ice. The rapid temperature change causes the glass to crack or shatter. Sharp items will scratch or shatter the glass.
Moisture in your car can cause fog to build up. Set your air vent to fresh rather than recirculate, and consider using your air conditioner for extra pesky days. They are designed to remove moisture and can do this even with the heater on.
How do you drive safely in snow and ice, especially if you rarely do it? Our car insurance experts know there are four ways to safe driving in winter weather that can be summed up with three words: drive the conditions!
If your car starts to slide, take these steps to try and correct it:
REMEMBER: Bridges and overpasses freeze first because frigid air can blow over AND under them. Use extra caution even when other road surfaces seem fine.
If you have a collision or run into trouble on the road during winter weather, we’re here to help you navigate your claim. First, focus on safety and document as many details of the incident as you can. If your NNINS auto policy includes towing and labor reimbursement coverage, you may use the towing provider of your choice and submit a claim with your towing receipt. You can also add or remove this coverage at any time by contacting your independent insurance agent.
The best way to report your claim is using your online member account. At your convenience, you can enter your claim details and upload supporting documentation—such as photos, police reports, and receipts—all at once or add more information later, right from your phone or computer.
THE NORTHERN NECK INSURANCE INTEGRITY PROMISE — We pledge to provide straight talk and good counsel from our NNINS Virginia insurance experts through our blog. While we hope you find this to be a helpful source of information, it does not replace the guidance of a licensed insurance professional, nor does it modify the terms of your Northern Neck Insurance policy in any way. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy.