Automobile expert Vladimir Sazhin sat down with the Public News Service to share essential safety guidelines for driving in snowy conditions. He stressed that cars should be used only when there is a real, urgent need, and emphasized that preparation and restraint are key to staying safe on treacherous roads.
According to Sazhin, lights play a critical role in visibility during a snowstorm. He advised drivers to turn on the headlights, fog lights, and rear fog lights if their vehicle is equipped with them. Alongside lighting, he urged motorists to slow their pace and maintain a generous following distance. He explained that if a vehicle in front of you slows down on a snowy stretch, the best course of action is not to rush or tailgate, but to keep ample space so that the driver behind has enough time to react. This mindset helps reduce skid risk and collision potential in slick conditions.
The expert also highlighted the importance of being prepared for severe traffic delays. He recommended carrying warm clothing and essentials in case a vehicle is stranded or traffic grinds to a halt on the highway. For electric vehicles, Sazhin noted an additional concern: battery drain can rapidly reduce available heating and propulsion, leaving occupants without warmth or power if the car cannot be recharged quickly. This practical caution reminds drivers to plan for energy consumption during winter trips and to consider alternates if the situation demands it.
Maxim Ryazanov, who previously served as the technical director of a prominent automotive market publication, echoed these winter safety messages. He advised drivers to adhere to posted speed limits and avoid abrupt maneuvers that could destabilize a vehicle on icy or snow-covered roads. He also underscored the necessity of keeping optics, mirrors, and windows clean and free of snow, ice, and condensation. Clear visibility is a non-negotiable factor in safe winter driving, everyone should prioritize it before setting out, especially when daylight is scarce and road glare is amplified by snow.
Both experts warned motorists about the intensified dangers that accompany temperature fluctuations during the season. Sudden freezes and thaws can alter road surface conditions quickly, transforming what seems manageable into a risky drive within moments. Keeping a calm, deliberate approach, staying well within safe speeds, and routinely inspecting visibility aids and electrical components can make a substantial difference in a winter journey. The core message is straightforward: preparation, prudent pacing, and steady attention to vehicle condition are essential for reducing risk when the weather turns harsh and the roads become unpredictable.