by Lynda Lampert

Created on: November 06, 2008   Last Updated: November 16, 2008

When I moved from balmy Pittsburgh to the frozen tundra of Erie, I was in for quite a shock. Rain and snow and ice, oh my! I wasn't prepared for the elements or how to drive in them. Here are a few tips to get you off to a great start.

1. Driving in the rain

Hydroplaning is the most dangerous aspect of wet weather driving. It is when the car's wheels do not have traction on the road and only skim across the wet surface. One of the first tips is to keep your tires properly inflated. This will effect how your car handles the traction. Stay away from large puddles and drive slowly. The best thing to do if you are caught hydroplaning is to ease off the accelerator and keep the wheel straight. Anything else will skid the car out of control. Pumping the brakes may work, but should only be used as a last resort.

2. Driving in the ice and snow

The most important tip to remember in the ice and snow is to slow down. Speed will cause skids, collisions, and spins. Brake very carefully in ice. If you are skidding towards the car in front of you, pump your brakes to slow down. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, you will want to brake as hard as you can. Anti-lock brake systems mechanically imitate brake pumping. They enhance safety when driving in all inclement weather conditions and are recommended for safe driving.

Be sure to steer carefully, especially around curves and turns. This is when the car is most prone to skidding off the road. Make sure your wind shield wipers are effective, and remember that bridges are often a sheet of ice well before other roads are.

If you find yourself skidding, take your foot off the accelerator. Carefully steer the car towards the road again, but do not brake. Ride through the skid until you regain enough traction to ease the car out of the ice patch.

Getting stuck in the snow is never a fun time. Usually a tow truck is the only solution, so be sure to have a cell phone to call for help. In the meantime, resist the temptation to spin your wheels. They won't catch; they will only heat up the snow and dig you deeper. Turning the wheels could help rearrange the snow to offer a bit of traction, but don't gun the engine. Easy on the gas is best. Shoveling snow from under the tires and using a traction material such as kitty litter or sand may help dislodge the vehicle. Rocking the car using the reverse and drive gears along with a light touch on the gas may work, but be sure your car's transmission is up to it. Some cars are not built for this use, and it is not recommended if you are not sure.

When snow and ice hit, the safest option is to not drive at all. For most of us, this is not an option. Driving slow and being aware of the conditions is the next best thing. Be sure to practice in a snow covered parking lot to hone your skills. They could save your life one day.

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