The Victoria Napolitano Bookstore THE DRIVING COMPANY WORKBOOK | Page 21

SNOW
I hear people brag that they do not need chains because they have
a 4WD vehicle. This may get you past the checkpoint for chains,
but you should consider putting them on anyway if conditions are
bad. You have 4WD but, like every other vehicle, you have 4-wheel
brakes. Your 4WD will help you go forward but it will not help you
stop faster than any other vehicle.
At 20 mph it takes 17 feet to stop on dry pavement, but on ice at 20
mph it takes 150 feet to stop! That’s almost 9x the stopping distance
from dry pavement. Even with chains on it will take you 75 feet to
stop.
Check the owner’s manual for your vehicle. The type of traction de-
vices you put on your vehicle depends on the manufacturer’s recom-
mendations. The type of suspension you have dictates whether you
use chains or cables, and which tires you put them on.
If you are parking in snowy conditions, then plan ahead. Do not park
where you will have to drive up a steep grade when you leave. If your
vehicle is fussy about shifting into 4WD, get it into 4WD before you
park. This way, you will be ready to go if conditions change after you
park. You may also consider putting your chains on if heavy snow
is expected before you move again. Toyota recommends not setting
your parking brake in freezing conditions. If snow or water accumu-
lates around the parking brake, then it can freeze and prevent it from
releasing.
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