With an arctic cold front projected to bring icy and potentially even snowy conditions to Southern Louisiana next week, it’s more important than ever that drivers throughout the Greater New Orleans Area use extra caution when navigating our shared roadways. According to local reports, chances of snow have increased, with local preparations underway to help keep high-traffic areas, such as Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, safe. In addition to keeping an eye on the forecast—which meteorologists say could still change in the coming days—and being aware of potential extreme weather patterns, here are some things you can do to prepare for cold weather driving in New Orleans this winter.
Slow Down
One of the most basic yet important things you can do when driving in rainy, snowy, or icy conditions is to simply slow down. Rain, sleet, snow, and ice create slick surfaces that can significantly reduce your traction. These conditions also significantly reduce visibility. Even if you feel confident on the road, it’s crucial to drive at a slower speed to allow for better control of your vehicle.
If you're not particularly used to driving in snowy or icy conditions, give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Rushing is a recipe for disaster, as it gives you less time to react to changes in traffic patterns, weather fluctuations, and other road conditions. Remember: Your arrival time is never as important as your safety.
Increase Your Following Distance
In normal driving conditions, the general rule of thumb is to keep a two- to three-second distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. This amount of space allows for enough time to react to sudden changes in speed or other changing traffic patterns when driving conditions are ideal. When rain, snow, sleet, or ice are present, however, you should increase that following distance to at least four or five seconds. This extra space gives you more time to react if the car in front of you suddenly brakes or loses traction.
Keep in mind that even the most skilled drivers can have difficulty stopping on wet or icy roads. A longer following distance helps prevent rear-end collisions and gives you more control over your vehicle in case you need to make an emergency stop.
Check Your Tires & Tire Pressure
Before heading out, make sure your tires are in good condition. Tires with adequate tread are essential for traction, which is especially important in slick, icy conditions. If your tires are worn down, you should consider replacing them as soon as possible.
In addition to checking the tread, don’t forget to check your tire pressure. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, which can reduce your vehicle’s ability to grip the road. Proper tire pressure ensures better control and stability, especially when driving on snow or ice.
Brake Carefully
Because snowy conditions are so rare in Southern Louisiana, many drivers are not well-versed in how to safely brake in extreme weather. When driving on snow or ice, you should avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can cause your vehicle to skid or even slide. In heavy rain or sleet, slamming the brakes can lead to hydroplaning, or aquaplaning, which occurs when your tires are no longer in contact with the road. Instead, they ride on top of a layer of water, leading to significant loss of traction and vehicle control.
When driving in wet or icy conditions, apply steady, gentle pressure to the brakes to slow down. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), you can press the brake pedal firmly and maintain pressure. ABS will help prevent your wheels from locking up and allow you to maintain steering control. If your car does not have ABS, you may need to pump the brakes gently to avoid skidding.
Clear Snow & Ice from Your Vehicle
One of the most important safety precautions you can take is to clear snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. While this may seem like a basic step, it’s crucial to ensure you have clear visibility from all windows and mirrors.
Ice can build up on your front and rear windshields, side mirrors, headlights, and even on your roof. A clear windshield, both in the front and back of your vehicle, along with clear side mirrors, is vital for seeing other drivers, pedestrians, and hazards. While it may not seem important, removing ice from the roof also matters, as it prevents it from sliding off while you’re driving and potentially causing an accident.
Be Extra Aware of Others
In places where snow and ice are uncommon, like New Orleans, it’s important to remember that most people don’t have a lot of experience driving in these types of conditions. If you must drive, stay hyper-aware of others on the road. Always drive defensively and avoid distractions behind the wheel. Pay attention to other motorists around you, including ahead, behind, and to the sides of your vehicle. Leaving adequate space, using turn signals, keeping your headlights on, and staying alert to changing traffic patterns can all help to keep you and others safe.
Stay Informed & Be Prepared to Adjust Your Plans
Weather conditions can change rapidly. It’s important to stay updated on the most recent forecasts and up-to-date road conditions. In the case of snow or ice, it’s a good idea to check the local news or use weather apps to track the latest conditions before heading out.
If the weather looks particularly hazardous, consider postponing or canceling non-essential trips. The risk of accidents is higher during extreme winter weather, so it may be safer to stay off the roads altogether.
What to Do If You Get Stuck or Involved in an Accident
If you find yourself stuck in the snow or involved in an accident, remain calm and take the following steps:
- Stay in your vehicle: If you’re stuck, stay inside to avoid exposure to the cold. Run the engine intermittently to stay warm but avoid running it for long periods to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Call for help: Contact emergency services or a tow truck if necessary. If you’ve been in an accident, ensure everyone is safe and call 911 to report the incident, especially if you or anyone else was injured.
- Document the scene: If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident or any damage to your vehicle. This can be helpful when filing your future insurance claim or pursuing legal action if needed.
While snow and icy conditions may be rare in New Orleans, they can present serious risks for drivers. By following these tips and staying prepared, you can reduce the likelihood of accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the road. Remember, the key to winter driving is staying alert, adjusting to the conditions, and taking extra precautions—especially in a city not accustomed to snow and ice.