Best Practices for Winter Driving in Missoula
Winter driving in Missoula can be unpredictable. One moment roads look clear, and the next you’re dealing with black ice, blowing snow, or slick mountain grades. Every winter, Speed’s Towing responds to preventable slide-offs, stuck vehicles, and accidents caused by common winter driving mistakes.
Following these winter driving best practices in Missoula can help you stay safe — and avoid needing a tow in freezing conditions.
1. Slow Down More Than You Think You Need To
Speed is the biggest factor in winter accidents. Even a small increase in speed can drastically reduce traction on snow or ice.
Winter roads require:
- Longer stopping distances
- Slower cornering
- Gentle acceleration
If conditions are icy, drive like you expect to slide — because eventually, you might.
2. Increase Following Distance
In winter conditions, your stopping distance can double or triple. Tailgating on snow-covered roads is one of the fastest ways to end up calling a tow truck.
Leave at least:
- 6–8 seconds between vehicles on snow
- Even more distance on ice
This gives you time to brake gradually and stay in control.
3. Avoid Sudden Steering, Braking, or Acceleration
Smooth driving matters more than speed in winter.
Sudden movements can:
- Break traction
- Cause fishtailing
- Send you sliding sideways into a ditch
If your tires lose grip, ease off the pedals and steer gently in the direction you want the vehicle to go.
4. Watch for Black Ice — Especially in These Areas
Black ice is nearly invisible and extremely dangerous. In Missoula, it’s most common:
- On bridges and overpasses
- In shaded areas
- On rural roads
- Early morning or late evening
If the road looks wet but temperatures are near freezing, assume it’s ice.
5. Don’t Rely on AWD or 4WD Alone
All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive help with traction — but they don’t help with stopping.
Plenty of winter recovery calls involve 4WD vehicles that slid off the road because drivers felt overconfident. Good tires, reduced speed, and smart decision-making matter more than drivetrain.
6. Avoid Driving During Severe Storms When Possible
Some winter conditions are simply unsafe to drive in.
If visibility drops, roads aren’t plowed, or ice is building fast, the safest choice is to wait it out. Many winter tows happen because drivers tried to “push through” a storm instead of delaying travel.
7. Know When to Stop and Call for Help
If you:
- Start sliding toward a ditch
- Lose traction repeatedly
- Get stuck in snow
- Can’t safely continue driving
Stop before the situation gets worse. Spinning tires or forcing the vehicle often leads to deeper snow, vehicle damage, or a more complex recovery.
8. Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle
Even short trips around Missoula should include:
- Warm clothing and blankets
- Flashlight
- Phone charger
- Jumper cables or jump pack
- Shovel and traction aids
These supplies can keep you safe while waiting for assistance.
When Winter Driving Goes Wrong, Speed’s Towing Is Ready
Even careful drivers can run into trouble during winter driving in Missoula. When that happens, Speed’s Towing provides fast, reliable help.
- Accident recovery
- Light & Medium-Weight towing
- Off-road winch-outs & Heavy Duty Tows
- Roadside assistance across Western Montana
When to Choose Speed’s Towing – (406) 529-7801
Choose Speed’s every time if you want the best of both world’s. We offer 24/7 towing because we know Montanans can need the best towing services day or night, rain or chine. For a local, trusted, and experienced tow truck company.
