Stranded on the Highway During a Winter Storm? Here's What to Do

The scene plays out like a nightmare in slow motion. The snow falls faster and faster, while traffic slows to a crawl and your gas gauge inches lower with each passing minute. Whether you're caught in an unexpected blizzard or stuck behind a multi-car accident, being stranded on the highway during winter weather can quickly become dangerous (3).

Stay Put and Stay Warm

Your first instinct might be to abandon your car and walk for help, but that's usually the worst choice you can make. Your vehicle is your shelter - your best protection against brutal winter conditions. Unless you can see a safe destination very close by, stay with your car. People who leave their vehicles in winter storms often become disoriented in low-visibility conditions and risk hypothermia (1).

Avoid running your engine continuously to conserve fuel. Instead, run it for about 10 minutes every hour to keep warm. This is important - you want to have enough gas to last until help arrives. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide from backing up into your car (2).

Keep Moving (Inside Your Car)