Rubbing tires with Dale Jr. at 200-mph in a NASCAR race or walking in the middle of a highway at night might seem safer than driving during the winter months, especially after a big storm has passed. Cars lose traction, other drivers take idiotic risks, visibility is eliminated by nearly horizontal snowfall, and the whole mess turns into a demolition derby thanks to freezing rain.

While drivers can limit their time on the road by putting off trips to the market or staying home for dinner, there are still occasions when traveling in bad weather is necessary. For times when winter driving can't be avoided, the trick is mastering how to navigate the nasty stuff and make it home with car and body intact.

So, settle in for a rundown of safe winter driving tips. Seatbelts are required.