Portland winters bring ice, freezing rain, and occasional snow that can catch drivers off guard. Here are practical tips to stay safe on the road when conditions turn slippery.
The Portland metro area does not get the heavy snowfall of the Cascades, but winter weather here can be deceptive. Freezing rain and black ice are common on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads — and because it happens less frequently than in other regions, many drivers are not prepared for it.
Check your tires before winter arrives. All-season tires are adequate for most Portland winters, but if you regularly drive in the West Hills, on Highway 26 toward the coast, or in areas that see more ice, consider winter tires. Check your tread depth and tire pressure — cold weather drops tire pressure, which affects handling and braking.
Slow down and increase your following distance. On wet or icy roads, your stopping distance can double or triple. Leave at least four to six seconds of space between you and the vehicle ahead. On bridges and overpasses, which freeze before road surfaces, reduce your speed even further.
Keep your gas tank at least half full during cold snaps. A fuller tank reduces condensation in the fuel system and gives you options if you get stuck in traffic or need to run the heater while waiting for help.
Carry a basic winter kit in your trunk: a blanket, a small shovel, an ice scraper, jumper cables or a jump pack, and a bag of sand or kitty litter for traction. These items take up little space and can make a big difference if you get stuck.
If you do get stuck or slide off the road, stay with your vehicle and call for help. Mian Towing LLC provides winch-out and recovery services across the Portland metro area. Call us at (503) 984-0458 and we will get to you as quickly as road conditions allow.
Stuck or stranded this winter?
Mian Towing LLC provides winch-out recovery and towing across the Portland metro area — call us any time conditions get rough.