Driving on winter roads

In winter, roads are darker, colder, wetter and more slippery. Here are some useful tips for safe driving on winter roads.

Drive safely

In winter, roads are darker, colder, wetter and more slippery. Pay attention to road and traffic conditions, be alert and drive safely. Keep an eye on the mirror, and let others past.

Always check road and traffic information and the weather forecast before you start your drive.

If you experience a dangerous traffic situation, you can call the Traffic Control Centre on tel. +47 22 175 175.

Gaularfjellet. Photo: Nasjonale turistveger / Statens vegvesen

Are your driving a rental car?

Then you might be driving a car you are not used to. Familiarise yourself with the car and its functions before you drive on winter roads. Contact the rental company if you are uncertain about something.

Challenging driving conditions

Adjust your speed to the conditions on the road. Remember that your braking distance will be much longer on icy roads.
Be aware of freezing rain when the temperature drops below the freezing point (0°C / 32°F).
Always keep well to the right, especially on narrow and snowy roads.
Use lower gears on steep downhill slopes. Comply with traffic signs.
Pay attention to signs warning you of ice, avalanches, closed roads etc.
You should not use cruise control when driving in adverse conditions or on unfamiliar winter roads.

Photo: Nasjonale turistveger / Statens vegvesen

Equipment in the car on long drives

A warning triangle and reflective vest should be easily accessible in the car.
A shovel may save you if your car gets stuck in the snow.
Pack extra clothes and food. Carry a flashlight, a tow rope, a warm blanket, lock oil, and mittens or gloves.
Jump leads will be of great help if your battery runs out.
Remember to fuel up or ensure you have enough electricity, especially before a mountain pass.
Check that the tread depth on your winter tyres is at least 3 mm and that the pressure is correct.

You need to have a warning triangle in your car. Photo: Colourbox

Be careful when darkness falls

Check that your lights are on, both front and rear.
Remove snow and ice from your car so that you can see and be seen. Also remember the roof of the car.
Always wear a reflective vest when you step out of the car along the road.
Many wildlife accidents occur at dusk or dawn. Slow down and drive carefully!

Driving in a convoy

A convoy system means that cars must drive together behind a lead vehicle, often due to bad weather on mountain passes or roadworks in progress.

Follow signs and instructions from traffic directors.
There is always an escort vehicle heading the convoy – do not overtake or turn around.
Keep a good distance from the car in front of you, but make sure you can still see its rear lights.
Do not leave the car if you have to stop in a convoy. This could be extremely dangerous.

Let the snow plough do its job

Do not overtake, wait until the snow plough pulls over and lets you past. Keep a safe distance from the snow plough.

A snow plough ploughing snow. — Photo: Nasjonale turistveger / Statens vegvesen

Emergency

Police: 112 (emergency) / 02800 (other serious incidents)
Ambulance: 113
Fire service: 110
Traffic Control Centre: +47 22 175 175. Report dangerous road situations like objects in the road, flooding, vehicle breakdowns and road damage.

If you encounter an emergency vehicle, you must reduce your speed, use your indicators, and as a general rule, move to the right-hand side of the road.