Driving in snow and ice demands a different approach. Reduced grip, longer stopping distances and unpredictable road conditions mean that even familiar journeys require more planning and smoother control. For employees who drive for work, the risks can be greater. Time pressures, varied routes and the need to remain focused throughout the day all increase the importance of preparation and sound judgement. This guidance outlines practical steps that help all drivers stay safe in winter conditions, with particular consideration for those who drive as part of their job.

Preparation before setting off

Preparation is the single most effective way to reduce risk in winter conditions. Snow and ice limit grip, increase stopping distances and make vehicle behaviour less predictable. A few minutes spent assessing the journey and preparing the vehicle can prevent incidents that are far harder to manage once on the road. For employees who drive for work, this preparation is part of professional responsibility. It protects the driver, the organisation and other road users.

Assessing the journey

Before setting off, it is important to establish whether the journey is necessary and whether conditions are suitable for safe travel. You should:

• Consider whether the journey is essential. Are you able to join your meetings remotely or adjust your schedule to remove unnecessary exposure to risk.
• Check weather forecasts and road treatment updates. Conditions can vary significantly across short distances, especially where roads have been untreated.
• Allow additional time. Rushing increases the likelihood of poor decisions and harsh inputs.

Preparing the vehicle

A well‑prepared vehicle is essential in winter conditions, as mechanical issues or reduced visibility can quickly escalate into avoidable incidents. To prepare, you must:

• Clear all windows, mirrors, lights and the roof. Snow left on the roof can slide forward under braking or fall into the path of other road users.
• Ensure the heater, demister and wipers are working effectively.
• Check tyre condition and pressures. Adequate tread depth is critical for maintaining grip.
• Top up screenwash with a winter‑grade solution to prevent freezing.
• Keep the fuel tank sufficiently full. Delays and diversions are more likely in winter conditions.

Preparing the driver

Effective winter driving also depends on the driver being physically comfortable, mentally prepared and equipped to manage delays or changing conditions. You should:

• Wear suitable clothing that allows free movement and effective control of the vehicle.
• Choose footwear that provides secure pedal feel.
• Carry essential winter items such as a torch, warm layers, a scraper, and a charged mobile phone.

Understanding grip and vehicle behaviour

Snow and ice significantly reduce the friction between the tyres and the road surface. This affects every aspect of vehicle control, from pulling away to steering and braking. A clear understanding of how grip is lost and regained helps drivers make calmer, more informed decisions.

How reduced grip affects stopping distances

Stopping distances increase dramatically in winter conditions. Even gentle braking can overwhelm the limited grip available, so drivers must plan further ahead and avoid sudden inputs.

Why smooth inputs matter

Smooth steering, acceleration and braking help the tyres maintain contact with the road surface. Abrupt movements can break traction and cause the vehicle to slide.

The role of speed and weight transfer

Lower speeds reduce the demand placed on the tyres and give the driver more time to react. Understanding how weight shifts under braking, acceleration and cornering helps drivers maintain stability on slippery surfaces. When you brake, weight shifts towards the front of the vehicle. The harsher the braking, the more pronounced this shift becomes. If the brakes are applied sharply, the rear of the vehicle can become light, reducing the grip available to the rear tyres. On snow or ice, this lack of rear‑end stability increases the likelihood of the vehicle stepping out of line and beginning to rotate.

The Differences between Rear, Front, and All Wheel Drive Vehicles in Snow and Ice

Rear Wheel Drive Vehicles

When a rear‑wheel‑drive vehicle loses grip under braking or acceleration, the rear tyres are more likely to step out of line because they are responsible for both propulsion and a share of the vehicle’s stability. On snow or ice, any sudden input can overwhelm the limited grip available at the rear.

In a rear‑wheel‑drive vehicle, harsh braking still shifts weight to the front, reducing the grip available to the rear tyres. Because the rear wheels provide the drive, this loss of rear‑end grip can make the vehicle more prone to stepping sideways.

If the rear begins to move, the correct response is to look where you want the vehicle to go and steer smoothly in that direction. Reducing braking pressure slightly can help the rear tyres regain grip, but all inputs should remain gentle to avoid worsening the slide.

Front Wheel Drive Vehicles

Front‑wheel‑drive vehicles place both steering and drive through the front tyres. In low‑grip conditions, this can lead to a different type of instability.

When the front tyres lose grip, the vehicle is more likely to continue straight ahead even if the steering wheel is turned. This is known as understeer. Harsh acceleration or braking can overload the limited grip available at the front, especially on snow or ice.

If the vehicle begins to understeer, easing off the accelerator and reducing steering angle slightly helps the front tyres regain grip. Once the tyres have re‑established contact with the surface, gentle steering can guide the vehicle back on line.

All Wheel Drive Vehicles

All‑wheel‑drive systems can improve traction when moving off, but they cannot overcome the fundamental limits of grip in winter conditions.

Because power is distributed to all four wheels, all‑wheel‑drive vehicles can feel more stable when accelerating on slippery surfaces. However, they do not stop or steer any better than other layouts on snow or ice. If grip is lost, the vehicle can slide in any direction depending on the input that caused the loss of traction. The correct response is the same as in other vehicles: look where you want to go, steer smoothly in that direction and avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Allowing the tyres time to regain grip is more effective than relying on the drivetrain.

How driver‑assistance systems behave on ice

Systems such as ABS and traction control support the driver, but they cannot overcome the limits of grip. Knowing how these systems respond in low‑friction conditions helps drivers use them effectively without relying on them.

Driving Techniques for Snow and Ice

Driving in winter conditions requires a deliberate, measured approach. Every input should be smooth, predictable and proportionate to the limited grip available. These techniques help drivers maintain control and reduce the likelihood of sudden loss of traction.

Pulling away with minimal wheel-spin

Gentle acceleration is essential when moving off on snow or ice. Using a higher gear than usual can reduce torque at the wheels and help prevent wheel-spin. Allow the vehicle to build momentum gradually rather than forcing it to move quickly.

Maintaining momentum without rushing

Once moving, maintaining steady progress is more effective than frequent stops and starts. Sudden changes in speed can unsettle the vehicle, especially on inclines or untreated surfaces. Aim for consistent, controlled movement that respects the conditions.

Using higher gears to reduce torque

Selecting a higher gear reduces the amount of torque delivered to the driven wheels. This helps the tyres maintain grip, particularly in rear‑wheel‑drive vehicles where excessive torque can cause the rear to step out of line.

Steering and braking smoothly

Smooth steering inputs help the tyres maintain contact with the surface. Abrupt movements can overwhelm the limited grip available. Braking should be progressive, allowing weight to transfer gradually to the front tyres rather than suddenly removing grip from the rear.

Managing hills

On uphill sections, build momentum early and avoid stopping where possible. On downhill sections, select a low gear and use engine braking to control speed. Relying heavily on the brakes can cause the wheels to lock or the vehicle to slide.

Managing bends

Approach bends at a speed that allows the vehicle to remain stable throughout the turn. Reduce speed before entering the bend rather than braking while steering. Once in the bend, keep steering smooth and avoid sudden acceleration until the vehicle is straight again.

Managing junctions

Junctions often have compacted snow or ice due to repeated stopping and starting. Approach slowly, brake progressively and be prepared for reduced grip. When pulling out, choose a gap that allows for slower acceleration without pressure.

What to do if the vehicle begins to slide

If the vehicle starts to slide, remain calm and avoid sudden inputs. Look where you want the vehicle to go and steer smoothly in that direction. Ease off the accelerator or reduce braking pressure to allow the tyres to regain grip. Sharp corrections can worsen the slide.

Planning and hazard perception

Effective winter driving relies on anticipating hazards before they develop. Snow and ice reduce the margin for error, so drivers must plan further ahead, observe more actively and adjust their decisions to reflect the conditions. This approach supports safer, smoother progress and reduces the likelihood of sudden manoeuvres.

Reading the road surface

Winter roads can vary significantly within short distances. Shaded areas, bridges and exposed sections create their own micro-climates, often remaining icy even when other parts of the road have thawed. Drivers should anticipate this and scan well ahead for changes in surface texture or colour, as these can indicate reduced grip.

Identifying untreated or partially treated areas

Gritting is not always uniform. Some sections may have been missed or may have had the salt displaced by traffic. Drivers should be alert to patches of compacted snow, slush or ice, adjusting speed and steering inputs before reaching them.
Anticipating other road users

Not all drivers adapt their behaviour to winter conditions. Some may brake late, accelerate harshly or misjudge stopping distances. Professional drivers should allow extra space, expect unpredictable actions and avoid placing themselves in situations where they rely on others to behave correctly.

Adjusting following distance

Stopping distances increase significantly on snow and ice. A larger following gap gives the driver more time to react and reduces the need for sudden braking. This is particularly important for employees who may be driving unfamiliar vehicles or routes. The Highway Code suggests a minimum of a 10 second gap between you and the vehicle in front in snow and ice conditions, but the more you have, the better and longer you have to respond accordingly.

Planning for reduced visibility

Snowfall, spray and fog can all limit visibility. Drivers should use appropriate lights, reduce speed and avoid overtaking unless absolutely necessary. Clear windows and mirrors before setting off and maintain them throughout the journey.

Conclusion

Safe winter driving is built on preparation, patience and smooth control. Snow and ice reduce the margin for error, so every decision should be deliberate and proportionate to the conditions. For employees who drive for work, this approach supports consistent, professional standards throughout the journey.

If the vehicle becomes difficult to control, the priority is to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Looking in the direction you want the vehicle to travel and applying smooth, measured steering gives the tyres the best chance of regaining grip. Reducing acceleration or easing off the brakes can also help the vehicle settle without worsening the slide.

If conditions deteriorate to the point where continuing is unsafe, it is appropriate to stop in a secure location and reassess. For employees who drive for work, this must be a professional decision. Communicating delays early, avoiding unnecessary risks and waiting for conditions to improve all contribute to safer outcomes for everyone on the road.

Bibliography

Department for Transport (2024) The Highway Code. London: The Stationery Office. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code (Accessed: 3rd January 2026).

Police Foundation and College of Policing (2020) Roadcraft: The Police Driver’s Handbook. London: TSO.