For many families, a teen’s first winter behind the wheel is just as, if not more, nerve-racking than the day they got their license. Snow, slush, black ice and early nightfall all raise the risks for young drivers who are still learning how a vehicle operates. 

The dangers are real. Winter weather and slick roads contribute to nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every year. In 2023 alone, there were an estimated 22,293 injury crashes during snow or sleet conditions.1 

The good news is that preparation, practice and clear family rules can help teen drivers build the skills and judgment they need to stay safe. 

Start with a conversation and a plan

Before the first storm hits, encourage parents to sit down with their teens and talk specifically about winter driving: 

• Acknowledge the challenge: Let teens know that even experienced drivers adjust their habits in the winter. This has less to do with their talent behind the wheel and more to do with how tough winter conditions can be. 

• Set clear weather rules: Decide in advance when the teen will not drive. For example, “no driving during an active snowstorm” or “no highway driving if roads are snow-covered.” Parents of teen drivers can utilize Nationwide’s Family Driving Agreement to establish a safe driving rules for their household.  

• Require weather checks: Make it a habit for teens to check the forecast and road conditions before they ask for the keys. If snow or ice is expected, they should factor in extra time or adjust plans. 

• Families can also create a “yes/no/maybe” framework together: 

• • Yes: Roads are clear and treated; visibility is good. 

• • Maybe: Light snow or wet roads: teen can drive short, familiar routes with extra caution. 

• • No: Heavy snow, ice or poor visibility: a parent drives or the trip is postponed. 

Practice winter skills together

Skill-building is crucial for new drivers. Encourage parents to: 

• Log supervised winter practice hours: The first few drives in winter conditions should be with an experienced adult in the passenger seat, ideally in low-traffic areas or empty parking lots. 

• Review basic controls: Teens should be comfortable with defrosters, headlights, hazard lights, wiper settings and how to switch on rear-window defrost if available. 

• Talk through decisions in real time: Parents can narrate their own choices: “The road looks shiny; that might be ice, so I’m slowing down earlier and leaving more space.” 

The goal is to help teens recognize hazards early and build muscle memory for safe responses. 

Prepare the vehicle before temperatures drop

A well-maintained car gives teen drivers a safer starting point. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) emphasizes the importance of preparing your vehicle before winter weather arrives.1 Key steps include: 

1. Check tires: Confirm proper tire pressure and adequate tread depth; consider winter tires in regions with frequent snow and ice. 
2. Test the battery: Cold weather reduces battery power, so have it inspected and replaced if needed. 
3. Top off fluids: Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid and make sure coolant and other fluids meet manufacturer recommendations. 
4. Inspect wipers and lights: Replace worn wiper blades and confirm all headlights, brake lights and turn signals work properly. 

This artical has been shared from Nationwide Insurance Launching Teen Driving Awareness Month