Myths about winter driving

Winter is here, and for many locations in the U.S. and Canada, it has brought forth a lot of travel challenges on top of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With the temperatures steadily dropping, storms gripping areas where they are not used to the conditions, and other emerging winter hazards, it is essential for fleet drivers to know myth from fact as they drive during the winter months.

Here are some myths about driving in winter

Let your vehicle idle before driving it in the cold weather

This is partially false. Cars, vans, and trucks have been developed to drive while still being cold, so idling isn’t necessary for proper engine performance. However, a minimal amount of idling may be necessary to ensure that windows and mirrors have clear and continued visibility before driving.

Having four-wheel drive makes your car safe to drive in snow

Most fleet drivers will have an advantage while driving in the snow, but stopping in the winter weather relies on excellent driving and winter tires.

Your parking brake can help you stop in winter weather

It can be a split-second decision to pull the parking brake in a panic situation. It is important for fleet drivers not to pull the parking brake. It will negate the ability of the vehicle to use its anti-lock braking system.

Underinflating your tires will give you more traction

On the surface, this myth would seem to make sense, since you create more surface area with tires. The problem, though, is that drivers would sacrifice grip and will lose traction by following this practice.