While Georgia is mostly known for its warm and wet weather, northern parts of the state can get hit by wintry weather now and then. In fact, 2025 is starting much of Georgia with a big winter storm watch warning from multiple meteorological centers and groups, including the National Weather Service. People who are new to the area or haven’t seen a Georgia snowstorm before could face unexpected dangers and challenges, especially when driving.
Morrison & Hughes has law offices throughout Georgia, so we are a part of many different communities across the state. We want all our friends and neighbors from all our communities to always be safe, which is why we would like to quickly share some Georgia snowstorm safety tips that everyone should know.
Driving Safely During Snowy Weather
Driving in snowy or icy conditions can be risky, especially in Georgia, where it’s rare, and many drivers lack experience with wintry roads.
To stay safe on the roads during a Georgia snowstorm, keep these tips in mind:
- Vehicle Preparation: Before you even think about hitting the road, make sure your car is ready for winter weather. Check your tires to ensure they’re properly inflated with good tread for better traction on icy roads, which might require you to install temporary tire chains. Prepare a winter emergency kit for your car that includes essentials like blankets, a flashlight, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, and a phone charger. Also, fully fill your gas tank before leaving to avoid running out of fuel.
- Safe Driving Practices: Once on the road, slow down and leave plenty of space between your car and others. The Georgia Department of Driver Services recommends that drivers slow down by about 1/2 their normal speed on snowy roads; for example, if the speed limit says 40 mph, don’t go faster than 20 mph. On slick roads, your car needs more distance to stop safely. Avoid hard braking and sudden acceleration, as this can cause skidding. Instead, brake gently and steer smoothly. Shift to low gears to maintain better control on icy roads, and never use cruise control in such conditions.
- Avoiding Roads When Possible: The safest advice is to stay off the roads entirely if conditions are bad. Unless it’s an emergency or unavoidable, avoid driving during snowy or icy weather. Staying off the roads not only protects you but also allows emergency and road maintenance crews to do their work more efficiently.
What to Do If You’re Stuck Roadside
Sometimes, even the best precautions aren’t enough to keep you out of trouble.
If you find yourself stuck on the roadside during a Georgia snowstorm, follow these steps to stay safer:
- Stay in Your Car: Your car provides shelter and protection from the cold. Wandering outside could expose you to dangerously low temperatures or slippery roads where oncoming cars may not see you.
- Signal for Help: Use your hazard lights or tie a brightly colored cloth to your car’s antenna to signal you need assistance. If you have flares or orange traffic cones, use them to warn others of your vehicle’s presence.
- Manage Fuel: To conserve fuel, run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour for warmth, but only if the exhaust pipe is kept clear of ice and snow to prevent carbon monoxide from building up inside the car.
- Conserve Phone Battery: Use your phone sparingly. Make only necessary calls to reserve your battery in case you’re stuck for an extended period.
- Ration Supplies: If you have food or water in the car, use them carefully. Stretch your provisions until help arrives.
General Snow & Ice Safety Tips
Driving isn’t the only concern when snowy weather strikes parts of Georgia. Staying safe at home and outdoors, or just going to work on foot, also requires preparation and awareness.
A few general safety tips you should know about snowy and icy weather in Georgia include:
- Personal Safety: Layer up! Dressing in warm, waterproof clothing is key to staying comfortable and safe in freezing weather. Don’t forget gloves, hats, and scarves to protect sensitive areas from frostbite. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction to reduce the likelihood of slipping on ice if you go outside.
- Home Safety: At home, check that your heating systems are functioning properly and follow safety guidelines for space heaters or fireplaces. Keep your home stocked with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and batteries in case of power outages. Protect your plumbing by letting faucets drip slightly to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Avoid Overexertion: It’s easy to underestimate how exhausting snow-related tasks, like shoveling, can be. Be mindful of your physical limits. Overexertion can lead to injuries or even heart strain, especially if you’re not used to strenuous activity in cold weather. Take frequent breaks and don’t push yourself too hard.
- Listen for Directions: Don’t forget to pay attention to government emergency announcements for updates on weather conditions and advice. Important messages are usually broadcast via local news stations, radio stations, and social media accounts.
- Watch Out for Others: Check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have health issues. A simple knock on the door can go a long way to show someone that you are nearby if they ever need help, especially during a time as chilling as a Georgia snowstorm.
Please Do Your Best to Stay Safe This Winter
Snowstorms may not be a frequent occurrence in most of Georgia, but they can be extremely disruptive and dangerous when they do occur. By preparing your vehicle, learning safe driving techniques, and knowing how to stay safe if you’re stranded, you can reduce the risks that winter weather poses. On top of that, staying informed and equipped for snowstorms in your home and community can make a big difference for everyone around you.
From all of us at Morrison & Hughes, please do your best to stay safe this winter and any forecasted Georgia snowstorm. If you get into a car accident that you think was caused by another driver who might not have been acting safely enough in the wintry conditions on the road, you can call (404) 689-2734 to speak with our team. With many law offices across Georgia, we can schedule a free case review at the one nearest you.