Fog, snow, black ice — driving in wintery conditions can be a dangerous business. Here are some tips for safely navigating those hazards.
Two separate bus crashes near Lake Pukaki in the South Island yesterday highlighted the dangers that come with driving in winter.
Although police say the causes of both crashes are still yet to be determined, Mackenzie District Mayor Anne Munro said road conditions in the area had been poor with ice and fog.
The separate crashes saw 15 people taken to hospital, Jared McCulloch reports.
Fog, ice and snow are still affecting roads around the South Island, prompting NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) to issue guidelines around driving to the conditions.
With many people on holiday and exploring unfamiliar roads, it’s especially important to adjust to the winter conditions in the south, says Nicole Felts, journey manager for NZTA in Otago and Southland.
“Our contractors are working hard to keep the roads safe – they are out in force applying grit and clearing snow where and when needed – but we also need drivers to do their part,” she said.
Felts said drivers should slow down and anticipate slippery surfaces on bridge decks, corners and other areas that miss out on the sun during winter.
Slippery conditions are commonly found in these places:
- The Milford Road (SH94)
- The Lindis Pass connecting Otago and Canterbury
- Burkes Pass in South Canterbury
- The Arthur’s Pass and Porters Pass routes
- The route into Dunedin from the north over the Leith Saddle
- SH88 out to Port Chalmers on the west side of the harbour.
Tips for driving safely in winter
Firstly, plan your trips to avoid the coldest times of the day or night where possible.
You should also check the weather conditions and any highway restrictions or warnings before heading out.
Drive slower than you normally would. Extend your travelling distance from the car in front of you because it takes longer to stop on slippery roads – double the two-second rule for following distances.
Drivers should also try to accelerate smoothly and brake gently on wintery roads. Sudden braking or turning movements can cause a skid. Vehicles without anti-skid braking systems should smoothly pump the brake pedal in short bursts, rather than pressing long and hard, to avoid skidding or sliding.
Use the highest gear when travelling uphill and the lowest when heading downhill.
When travelling in fog, rain or snow, drive with the lights dipped for increased safety.
What about black ice?
Black ice is a particularly nasty winter driving phenomenon in that it’s the same colour as the road and almost impossible to spot before you hit it.
The AA says quiet, shaded stretches of road can be susceptible to black ice.
If you do wind up in a skid on an icy road, drivers are advised to take their foot off the accelerator and avoid the instinct to slam on the brakes. Drivers should also try to keep steering straight ahead rather than trying to correct the skid with sudden movements.