Winter Driving
We know winter driving in Montana can be daunting if you are not used to driving in the snow. Here is some information to put your mind at ease.
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After a storm, the roads get plowed very quickly and getting around is typically not a problem with AWD, especially with snow tires. If by some chance there is an issue or you are caught somewhere and don’t feel comfortable driving, we are here to help. You can call us anytime for assistance or a ride.
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Driving a small AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicle is better and easier to drive in snowy and icy conditions than a large 4WD (four wheel drive) truck for someone new to the snow. AWD systems direct torque (the force you feel on acceleration) from the engine to both axles, delivering power to all four wheels. This gives extra traction during acceleration in slippery conditions on the road. AWD allows for a variation in the power that’s sent to each axle which allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, providing better handling on dry pavement, too.
AWD switches automatically between front wheel drive and AWD as needed rather than staying in 4WD which does not necessarily give more control but gives added power and traction for off-roading, hauling, or extreme conditions (not needed here). Also, a truck is lighter in the back end and so can fishtail and be more difficult to control than a smaller, more compact vehicle. You will see tons of Subarus here in Bozeman for this very reason.
This article explains the difference and why AWD is better for icy conditions.
AWD vs. 4WD -
Unlike the large, airport based rental companies, our cars are fitted with snow tires in the winter rather than all-season tires. This gives better grip and more control when driving in icy conditions.
“Snow tires are uniquely designed to improve traction in snowy and icy conditions. Regular tires are not. There are three main features that set winter tires apart from regular tires: rubber composition, tread depth and pattern, and biting edges.” More Info
Many guests ask us about snow chains. Snow chains are used for severe road conditions and should never be used on bare asphalt, meaning that they have to be taken on and off. They are typically only used by large trucks hauling heavy loads here.
The roads in the valley stay clear enough that they are not needed. Snow tires give sufficient traction.
Drive slowly. Always adjust your speed down to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
Increase your following distance to five to six seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.
Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will just make your wheels spin. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.
Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
More Info
Winter Driving Tips
This map by the MT department of transportation gives current road conditons. Take a look before traveling to see the conditions of your route and if you should re-route.
MT Road Conditions