A video posted on AccuWeather’s Facebook page is a great reminder to carry tire chains if you plan to drive in icy or snowy conditions.
In the video, the car appears to be moving slowly through a parking lot, with stunning mountains in the background. However, it quickly appears that the driver loses control on the snowy mountain road.
The tires appear to lack sufficient traction to stop the vehicle. Then, a rear passenger opens a door and jumps into the snow while the vehicle is still sliding. The car eventually stops without hitting anyone nearby.
Chilean broadcaster Canal 13 reported that no one was injured. The outlet confirmed that the vehicle was traveling without tire chains.
The Car Continued Sliding as Bystanders Shouted
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People standing nearby repeatedly shout advice as the car continues sliding. According to the news outlet, one person tells the driver to release the brake, but the vehicle keeps drifting for several more seconds.
The scene unfolded in Farellones, a mountain village and ski destination outside Santiago. The exact date of the incident and the identities of the occupants were not included in the available reports. Chile’s national public broadcaster, TVN, aired the footage on Aug. 7. It described the person behind the wheel as a tourist who had not followed recommendations to use snow chains.
A Rear Passenger Decided To Jump
The most alarming moment arrives when a door opens on the moving vehicle. A passenger seated in the back climbs out and drops into the snow. Jumping from a moving vehicle introduces another opportunity for serious injury. However, the video captures how quickly panic can take over when a driver loses control near steep mountain terrain.
One person commented on the video with some advice, “Snow tires help a LOT. That wasn’t sheet ice, those aren’t snow tires or that wouldn’t have happened. That person drove up from the low lands…😆”
Snow Can Eliminate Traction Even at Low Speeds
Chile’s National Traffic Safety Commission explains that snow reduces tire traction and increases the risk of skidding. The agency recommends using chains when driving on snow to give the tires additional grip. Drivers should also increase their following distance, avoid overtaking, and make their movements gradually.
The country also advises motorists to check their tires, brakes, lights, and other essential equipment before driving in winter conditions. Depending on the road, drivers may need winter tires, studs, or chains.
Officials Recently Added Restrictions to the Farellones Route
The viral video appeared shortly after authorities announced additional safety measures for Route G-21, the main road connecting Santiago with Farellones and the surrounding ski areas. The Chilean government announced one-way travel periods for the winter season. Uphill traffic is scheduled from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., while downhill traffic is permitted from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Officials said the restrictions were intended to reduce crashes and make it easier for buses and other large vehicles to navigate the mountain route. They also asked visitors to plan ahead and respect the designated travel periods.