Whether you’re a Colorado native or you’re still sporting a Texas license plate, we’re all susceptible to panic when I-70 becomes an ice rink. As the flakes really start to fly, we asked Mark Stolberg, vice president of training at Colorado Springs–based driving school MasterDrive Experience, to share his tips for navigating snowy and icy streets.

Read More: 4 Tips for Driving in Winter Weather

5280 February 2026
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1. The biggest mistake drivers make is underestimating the conditions, Stolberg says. Visit cotrip.org, the Colorado Department of Transportation’s route planner, to see road conditions, traffic incidents, and snowplow locations. Stick to well-traveled routes as they’ll be cleared first.

2. Summer tires and even all-season tires aren’t reliable in Colorado’s winter weather. To stay safe, store chains in your car or buy studless winter tires. “The rubber itself grips better, in addition to the tread pattern,” Stolberg says. Keep them on from Halloween to Easter.

3. Extend your following distance from the standard three seconds to 12. If someone is tailgating you, add even more distance between your vehicle and the car directly ahead. “Now, when the guy in front of you puts on his brakes, you can put on your brakes so gradually that [the guy behind you] is not a threat,” Stolberg says.

4. Do one thing at a time. If you need to accelerate or slow down, for example, don’t change lanes while you do it. This keeps your car stable and prevents disrupting traffic flow. Try to make your movements as smooth as possible.

5. If your tires begin to lose traction, gently take your foot off the gas. Don’t hit the brakes or steer into the skid (in the frenzy of the moment, it’s difficult to determine which way the tires are sliding). Instead, point your steering wheel the direction you want to go. As the front tires turn forward, the back tires will straighten out.

Read More: How to Prep Your Car for Winter