(December 18, 2010) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — It's the most wonderful time of the year, but not for your car. Edmunds.com has issued tips to help snow-belt drivers.

One of the most important elements of driving — especially on slippery roads — is to maximize traction. According to Edmunds.com, approximately 70 percent of new cars come with standard all-season tires, but not all are well-suited to serious winter driving conditions.

Use the InsideLine winter tire buying guide to make an informed decision about which snow tires may be best for you.

"Winter is the enemy of the car. Cold temperatures make it harder for an engine to work properly. Snow and ice limit traction. Potholes damage wheels and tires. Salt causes rust and gravel pits the paint. But there are things you can do to help your vehicle in this time of duress," noted Edmunds.com Editor Brent Romans in his article How to Winterize Your Vehicle.

Romans emphasizes that this is an important time to check your battery, fluids, belts, hoses, wipers and other critical functionality to avoid any unpleasant surprises on a frigid day.

Should you find yourself stuck, you'll be glad you followed Edmunds' advice to carry an emergency kit in your car. The kit should contain a flashlight, flares, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, items to keep you warm and a bag of abrasive material like sand that can help give a tire some necessary traction.

Worse than getting stuck is, of course, finding yourself in a scary situation on the road. If a slick section in a turn causes your front tires to lose grip, the common — but incorrect — reaction is to continue turning the steering wheel. If the icy conditions end and the front tires regain grip, your car will dart whichever way the wheels are pointed. Be careful not to oversteer.

For more safe driving tips click here.

Perhaps the best tip for winter driving: Sometimes it's best to stay home.