Hazardous Conditions: Winter Driving
Driving in winter weather is challenging. Traction can be limited, and snowy conditions reduce all drivers' ability to see. Drivers should remove snow and ice from their windows and lights before departing, and it's helpful to see that the windshield wipers (including the washer fluid) and defroster are well maintained. They should also kick snow from their footwear (so their foot doesn't slip off of the pedals while driving) and activate the low beam headlights.
With today's high-tech vehicles, however, it's important not just to ensure your own visibility. These days, the car can do some of the driving, and it's critical that the vehicle be able to "see" as well. An increasing number of vehicles are equipped with driver's aids such as lane departure warning systems, crash avoidance systems, adaptive cruise control, emergency brake assist, and more. These systems use cameras, sensors, radar, and ultrasound (or some combination thereof) to do what they do, and a thick coat of ice, snow, and/or grime can significantly hamper their effectiveness.
When discussing hazardous driving conditions with students, remind them:
Keep Your Car Clean So It Can "See"
In addition to all windows and lamp lenses, don't forget to clear obstructions from the following sensors (if your vehicle is so-equipped):
- lane departure camera system
- adaptive cruise control radar window
- blind spot monitor cameras/sensors
- 360° view side cameras
- rearview camera
- ultrasonic parking assist sensors
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| Common Locations of Sensors |
Some of these sensors are less sensitive to being blocked by ice or snow. The radar window and the bumper-mounted ultrasonic sensors should be more tolerant of obstructions, though their effectiveness can be impaired by ice or snow or dirt, so you may as well get them clear if you can. Other systems, like lane departure and some forms of adaptive cruise control and emergency brake assist are camera-dependent, and those cameras are just like your eyes—they can't see through snow and ice. If you don't clean these sensors well, not only will they not work, but they may drive you crazy with false alerts.
A little extra effort before you slide behind the wheel can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your safety systems. Help them to help you, and stay safe when driving in winter weather.
