When winter hits hard

What to know when the weather turns cold and nasty, and you still have to get to where you’re going.

When winter hits hard

What to know when the weather turns cold and nasty, and you still have to get to where you’re going.

OnStar can drive away your winter worries.

 

Winter weather is inevitable. That means driving in winter weather is also pretty much inevitable. The safest way to manage ice, snow, wind and freezing rain is to just stay home, but that isn’t always possible.

Ontario Provincial Police Sgt. Kerry Schmidt has seen what can happen when winter driving goes wrong and offers some steps drivers can take to help stay safe.

“Have a plan,” he says. “Know where you’re going. Drive according to the conditions. Understand it may take you longer than you expected to get where you’re going.”

OnStar can help too. Google Assistant* allows hands-free assistance that helps you keep your eyes on the road. With your vehicle mobile app, you can check your vehicle health and use remote start* to get the car warm before you head out on the road. Roadside Assistance* is available if you need it, and Advisors are available for directions or emergencies.

Expert advice from OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt

If you have traction control in your vehicle, should it always be on in winter conditions?

What mistakes should you avoid making when the roads turn slick this winter?

What items could help give you a little more traction when you need it most?

A few other tips that could help make the winter a little safer

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Managing icy roads:

Turn off cruise control when conditions are slick. If your vehicle begins to slide, take your foot off the gas and gently apply the brakes. Also, gently turn the steering wheel in the direction you are moving. Winter tires really can help, but make sure whatever tires you have are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendations and have sufficient tread. Your Dealer can help check that.
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If you get stuck:

Again, being gentle with your vehicle is the key. Pushing hard on the gas pedal and spinning the tires can often dig you in deeper. Instead, “rock” the vehicle by pressing the accelerator softly to move forward a few inches, brake, and then reverse a few inches. Repeat a few times to see if you can free your vehicle.
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3 of 4

If you can’t free your vehicle:

Make sure your tailpipe isn’t blocked — that could cause carbon monoxide to enter the vehicle. And always turn on your headlights and hazard lights to make sure your vehicle is visible. If necessary and safe, get out and clear the car of snow. That will make it easier for someone to find you.
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Make sure you have:
  • Plenty of gas or battery charge (if you’re driving an electric vehicle) to get where you’re going.
  • Extra clothes in your vehicle, including a jacket, hat, gloves and maybe even boots.
  • An emergency kit that includes a blanket, food, a flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit. 
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OnStar Safety & Security Plan in action.

We've got you

Life is unpredictable — that’s why the OnStar Safety & Security Plan is here for you with helpful, human problem-solvers 24/7.
Learn More
Travel with confidence through the winter knowing that OnStar has got your back.

How OnStar can help keep you on the road this winter

When winter rears its ugly head, OnStar can help you get where you need to be.
Learn More
A person trying to contact an OnStar advisor through his smartphone to ask for Roadside Assistance on his vehicle.

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You never know when you might run into trouble on the road, but these five tips can help make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible when it happens.
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