How to teach your teenager to drive in snowy and icy conditions

Teaching your teenager to drive is already a nerve-wracking experience, but adding snow and ice to the mix can make it even more challenging. Winter weather creates hazardous driving conditions, including slippery roads, reduced visibility, and longer stopping distances. However, with the right preparation and training, you can help your teen become a confident and safe winter driver.

1. Start with the Basics Before Hitting the Road

Before letting your teen drive in winter conditions, it’s crucial to ensure they understand the basics of driving in snow and ice. Discuss these key points:

Reduce Speed – Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, so in winter weather, drivers should go significantly slower.
Increase Following Distance – Instead of the standard three-second rule, teens should leave at least six to eight seconds of space between their vehicle and the car ahead.
Brake Gently – Slamming on the brakes can cause the car to skid. Teach your teen to apply steady, gentle pressure when slowing down.
Steer Smoothly – Abrupt steering can cause the vehicle to lose control. Encourage gradual, controlled movements.
Stay Calm in a Skid – If the car starts sliding, don’t panic. Teach your teen to steer into the skid (i.e., turn the wheel in the direction they want the front of the car to go) and avoid hitting the brakes suddenly.

2. Choose a Safe Location for Practice

The best way for a teen to learn winter driving is through hands-on experience, but it should be done in a controlled environment. Find an empty parking lot covered in snow or ice where your teen can safely practice braking, accelerating, and steering. Let them experience how the car responds on slippery surfaces before taking them on actual roads.

During practice, have them:

Accelerate and stop gradually to feel how traction changes.
Practice turning at slow speeds to understand how the car responds.
Experience mild skids in a safe area and practice regaining control.

3. Teach the Importance of Proper Vehicle Preparation

Winter driving isn’t just about skill—it’s also about preparation. Make sure your teen understands the importance of:

Clearing Snow and Ice – Always clear the entire windshield, mirrors, and roof before driving. Snow left on the car can slide onto the windshield or become a hazard for other drivers.

Checking Tire Tread and Pressure – Worn-out tires have less traction, making it harder to stop. Teach your teen how to inspect tires and ensure they are properly inflated.

Keeping the Gas Tank at Least Half Full – This helps prevent fuel lines from freezing and ensures the car doesn’t run out of gas in an emergency.

Packing an Emergency Kit – Encourage your teen to keep an emergency kit in their vehicle, including a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, and non-perishable snacks.

4. Talk About Road Awareness and Decision-Making

Driving in winter isn’t just about handling the car—it’s also about making good decisions. Teach your teen to:

Check Weather and Road Conditions Before Driving – If road conditions are unsafe, it’s better to delay the trip.

Avoid Sudden Lane Changes – Changing lanes too quickly on icy roads can cause the car to lose control.

Know When to Stay Home – Some conditions are simply too dangerous for new drivers. If there’s heavy snow, ice storms, or extreme cold, it’s best to avoid driving altogether.

5. Lead by Example

One of the best ways to teach your teenager safe winter driving is by demonstrating good habits yourself. The next time you drive in snowy or icy conditions, explain what you’re doing and why. Show them how you brake gently, maintain control in a skid, and keep a safe following distance. Your teen will learn more by watching your calm and controlled driving than from any lecture.

Final Thoughts

Teaching your teenager to drive in snow and ice may feel daunting, but with patience and preparation, they can develop the skills needed to navigate winter roads safely. By starting with the basics, practicing in a controlled environment, and emphasizing preparation and awareness, you can help your teen become a responsible and confident driver—even in the toughest conditions. Contact the Clark, NJ lawyers at Team Law if you have questions or if you’ve been in an accident.

For more legal insights on winter driving and liability, check out our blog on who is liable for ice-related car accidents in NJ. Stay safe this winter!