What to do if your car is stuck in the snow? Our tips for getting out easily during snowstorms

The Quebec winter is well-known for its intense snowstorms and challenging road conditions. Getting stuck in the snow is a common situation for drivers and can quickly become a source of stress if you don’t know how to react effectively. What should you do in such a situation? Don’t worry—with a few simple tips and the right tools, it’s entirely possible to free your vehicle without panicking. Follow our guide to get out of the snow quickly and safely.

1. Stay calm and assess the situation

The first rule: don’t rush. Take a few seconds to assess the situation:

• How deeply is your vehicle stuck in the snow?
• Are the wheels on icy ground or buried in a snowbank?
• Is there enough space around you to maneuver safely?

Tip: If you’re on a busy road, turn on your hazard lights to signal your presence and avoid potential accidents.

2. Clear snow around the wheels and under the car

A snow shovel is your best ally in this kind of situation. Clear as much snow as possible around the drive wheels and under the chassis to help the wheels regain contact with the ground.

• No shovel? Use whatever you have on hand, like a flat piece of wood, a box lid, or even your hands (wearing gloves).
• Also, clear the front of the vehicle to create a clear path in the direction you want to go.

3. Create traction under your wheels

If your wheels are spinning, they lack traction. Here are a few simple solutions:

• Sprinkle salt, sand, or cat litter under the drive wheels. These materials help the tires “grip” the ground.
• Place car mats or a piece of cardboard under the wheels to create a rough surface.

4. Gently move the car

Once you’ve cleared the area and created traction, it’s time to try moving the vehicle:

• Gently switch between drive and reverse to create a rocking motion. This gradual movement can help free the wheels.
• Avoid sudden acceleration, as it can dig the wheels deeper into the snow.
• Temporarily disable your car’s traction control system (TCS) if it is equipped. This allows all the power to be directed to the drive wheels.

6. Prepare to avoid getting stuck in the future

Preparation is key to avoiding this kind of situation in the future. Here’s what you should keep in your trunk:

• A snow shovel.
• A small bag of salt, sand, or cat litter.
• Sturdy floor mats or traction plates.

Tip: Before parking, evaluate the ground conditions, especially after a snowstorm, to avoid areas with deep snow.
You can also check out this official guide from the Government of Canada for additional precautions.

Why learn to handle these situations with us?

At École Somerled, we understand that driving in winter requires more than just basic car control. That’s why our courses include practical techniques for managing winter driving challenges, such as handling snow, icy roads, or reduced visibility. Preparing for these situations ensures your safety and that of others on the road.

Conclusion

Getting stuck in the snow is never fun, but with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can solve the problem quickly and effectively. To better prepare for winter driving challenges, take a specialized winter driving course with École Somerled. Our experienced instructors will teach you how to handle difficult situations and drive with confidence, no matter the conditions.

Contact us today to learn more and reserve your spot!