Winter Driving Tips – On Your Way to Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is known for its incredible snowfall, but driving in winter conditions requires preparation and experience. While our dedicated Snow Removal Team works tirelessly to keep roads clear, it’s essential to be “snow smart.” This guide, based on advice from experts like Bridgestone/Firestone and championship-winning driver Peter Cunningham, will help you navigate winter driving in Mammoth.

Plan Ahead and Stay Informed:

• Monitor weather forecasts closely. If snow or ice is predicted, adjust your travel plans accordingly, leaving earlier or later to avoid the worst conditions.
• Whenever possible, shift night trips to daylight hours for better visibility and increased chances of prompt assistance if needed.

Prepare Your Vehicle:

Use this checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter:

1. Wipers: Check wiper blade condition and replace them if necessary. Consider snow blades for improved performance in heavy snow.
2. Coolant: Have your mechanic test the antifreeze/coolant to ensure adequate protection for the local temperatures.
3. Tires: Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflation and overinflation both reduce tire grip.
4. Snow Tires: If you regularly drive in snowy and icy conditions, snow tires are highly recommended. They offer superior traction and grip compared to all-season tires due to their softer rubber compound and specialized tread pattern.
5. Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full to minimize moisture problems in the fuel system and add beneficial weight to the vehicle.
6. Weight Distribution (Rear-Wheel Drive): For rear-wheel drive vehicles, adding weight to the trunk or truck bed can improve traction. Secure the weight to prevent shifting, which can be dangerous. Sandbags are a good option, as the sand can also be used for traction if needed.

Before You Go:

• Clear all windows and mirrors completely of ice and snow for maximum visibility. Don’t forget headlights and brake lights.
• Remove snow and ice from your shoes to prevent moisture buildup inside the car, which can fog windows. If fogging occurs, turn off the air recirculation and run the air conditioner briefly to dehumidify the air.
• Ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing seatbelts (lap and shoulder straps) and that they are snug and properly adjusted.
• Adjust headrests to minimize the risk of neck injuries in rear-end collisions, which are more common in winter.
• Plan your route in advance, avoiding hills, congested areas, and bridges if possible.
• Minimize distractions: While your radio can provide traffic updates, it can also be distracting. Consider keeping it off, especially in challenging conditions. Avoid using cell phones while driving on ice or snow, even hands-free devices.

Driving Techniques:

• Drive Slowly: Remember that posted speed limits are for ideal conditions. Reduce your speed according to the weather. Law enforcement can ticket drivers exceeding safe speeds for the conditions, even if below the posted limit.
• Be Aware of Others: Be extra vigilant about other drivers’ actions and anticipate potential hazards. Increase your following distance. If someone is tailgating you, don’t speed up; slow down or let them pass.
• Use Lights: Drive with your headlights on at all times to increase visibility to other drivers. In fog or heavy snow, low beams are often more effective than high beams.
• Braking: Apply brakes gently, even with ABS. Avoid locking the brakes, which can cause skidding. Smooth, gradual pressure is key. “Tiptoe to slow” is a good winter driving mantra.
• Steering: Keep both hands on the wheel and steer smoothly. In a skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go.
• Downshifting: While downshifting can provide some braking assistance, use it cautiously, especially in turns, as abrupt gear changes can cause skids.

Emergency Kit:

Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle:

• Blanket or extra clothes
• Candle and matches
• Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
• Flares
• Communication device (CB radio, cellular phone, or ham radio)
• Small shovel
• Flashlight
• Windshield scraper
• Tow rope
• Sand or cat litter for traction
• Jumper cables

If you get stranded, run the engine only briefly to use the heater, as carbon monoxide can build up quickly in a stationary vehicle. Avoid running the engine for extended periods when the vehicle isn’t moving, as this can cause severe engine damage. Most modern engines only need about a minute to warm up. Consult your owner’s manual.

Chain Installation in Winter Conditions

When highway signs indicate “Chains Required,” you must stop and install tire chains. Failure to do so can result in a citation and fine from the California Highway Patrol. You’ll typically have about a mile between the “Chains Required” sign and the checkpoint to install your chains.

Important Considerations:

• Changing Conditions: Chain control areas can change rapidly due to fluctuating weather and road conditions. Be prepared for adjustments.
• Speed Limit: When chains are required, the speed limit is reduced to 25 or 30 miles per hour.
• Safe Installation: Pull completely off the roadway to the right before installing chains. Do not stop in a traffic lane, as this creates a dangerous hazard for yourself and other drivers.
• Chain Installers: If you hire a chain installer, get a receipt with their badge number. Chain installers are independent businesses, not Caltrans employees. This information can be helpful if any issues arise later. Chain installers are not permitted to sell or rent chains.
• Chain Removal: After passing the “End of Chain Control” signs, pull over in a safe area off the roadway to remove your chains.
• Chain Recommendations: Caltrans does not endorse specific brands of tire chains. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended chain types and fitment for your vehicle.

Chain Requirements:

• R1: Chains required; snow tires allowed.
• R2: Chains required on all vehicles except 4x4s with snow tires on all four wheels.
• R3: Chains required on all vehicles – no exceptions.

R1 and R2 are the most common conditions. Roads are usually closed before an R3 condition is implemented.

Resources:

• Cal Trans: 1-800-427-7623 (ROAD)

This information will help you be better prepared for winter driving in Mammoth Lakes. Drive safely!

Have a Great Adventure, Steve Taylor, the Snowman