We’ve all been there: The forecast called for flurries, but suddenly you’re on Highway 20 or I-29 and the world has turned completely white. Driving during an active snowstorm is one of the most stressful situations you can face behind the wheel.
While our first advice as your insurance agents is always “stay home if you can,” we know that life in Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota doesn’t always pause for the weather. If you find yourself driving into the teeth of a storm, here is how to handle it safely.
1. See and Be Seen
Visibility is your first line of defense.
-
Clear it ALL: Before you leave, brush the snow off your entire car—hood, roof, and trunk—not just a small patch on the windshield. Blowing snow from your own roof can blind you or the driver behind you.
-
Lights On, High Beams Off: Turn on your headlights to make sure your taillights are active (daytime running lights often don’t turn on rear lights). Avoid high beams during heavy snow; the bright light reflects off the flakes and actually makes it harder to see.
2. The Rules of Momentum
Driving in deep or active snow requires a different touch than driving on ice.
-
Don’t Stop on Hills: If you are approaching an uphill grade, get some momentum going on the flat approach. Do not try to power up the hill once you are already on it—that just spins your wheels. And whatever you do, do not stop on the ascent.
-
Increase Following Distance: In a storm, the “3-second rule” becomes the “8-to-10-second rule.” You need room to react if the car in front of you spins out.
3. If You Get Stuck: Stay Put
One of the biggest mistakes drivers make during a blizzard is leaving their vehicle to walk for help. In whiteout conditions, it is incredibly easy to become disoriented and lost just yards from the road.
-
Stay with the vehicle: Your car is your shelter. It is much easier for rescuers to find a car than a person.
-
Clear the Exhaust: Ensure your tailpipe is clear of snow. A blocked exhaust can force deadly carbon monoxide back into the cabin.
-
Run the Engine Sparingly: Run the heater for 10 minutes every hour to conserve gas and battery, and crack a window slightly for fresh air.
4. Roadside Assistance is Key
When visibility drops to zero, the likelihood of sliding into a ditch skyrockets. This is where Allstate Roadside Assistance becomes essential.
-
If you have this coverage, you can use the Allstate mobile app to request help. It tracks your location, which is critical when snow covers mile markers and landmarks.
5. Keep Your Tank Full
We mentioned this in our winter prep post, but it bears repeating during a storm. If traffic comes to a standstill due to an accident ahead, you might be idling on the highway for hours. A full tank ensures you can keep the heat on.
Stay Safe, Midwest! We want all our neighbors in Sioux City, Council Bluffs, and beyond to make it home safely. If you have questions about adding Towing coverage or Roadside Assistance to your auto policy, give the office a call. We can get you set up so you have peace of mind the next time the snow starts falling.
