“In this weather, it’s very important to understand that four wheel drive only helps you accelerate faster on ice and snow. It does not help skidding or braking. In fact, it sometimes makes it worse. It gives you the false impression that there is more traction than there really is, and you tend to skid even more. “
As a crash reconstructionist, all I say is amen. I have tried for years to convince my wife that there is a difference in braking and acceleration. One is roadway specific and the other vehicle specific. Will she listen? Do I need to even answer that question?
I learned my lesson about roads and tires in Jacksonville FLa. a few years ago lost control on a cement road,really scary.
Yes, the braking ability comes from the tires. Up here, where winters can be harsh, nothing beats a set of four studded snow tires...but even they have their limitations.
Down there, where it seldom snows, it would be hard to justify buying them. But even a pair of mounted regular winter tires, stashed in the garage, would not be a bad idea.