Tips for Digging your Car out of a Snow Bank

Despite your best preparations and cautious driving, accidents can frequently happen on dangerous winter roads. Even at low speeds, accumulated ice and snow can easily cause your vehicle to lose control and have you stuck for hours. Here are some car travel tips and car safety tips about properly digging your car out of a snow bank.

Check the tailpipe
One of the most dangerous parts of becoming entrenched in the snow is the potential buildup of carbon monoxide inside the vehicle. In order to avoid this, DoSomething.org recommends immediately checking to make sure your car's exhaust pipe is clear - allowing you to safely wait inside while help arrives. Leaving the car running can also help to melt away some of the snow packed around the outside.

Traction boost
Even if you managed to clear most of the snow around your car's body and tires, gaining enough traction to pull yourself free can be tricky. If you need an extra boost, TeenDriving.com suggests using floor mats under the tires' edges to help gain a grip.

Snow melt
If you're going to be waiting for a while for a friend or tow-truck to come free your vehicle, you can help clear the area by spreading some deicer around. Simple rock salt will help loosen up the ice around your car for easier retrieval later on. However, try to avoid chemical solutions that can cause unintended environmental damage.

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