by Birgit Starmanns

Created on: November 09, 2008   Last Updated: December 03, 2008

In college, as a tropical storm moved up the East Coast, my roommate shouted, " let's go to the beach!" Whether going to see the rain, or more recently braving a snowstorm to reach North Tahoe for fresh powder, more and more of us are driving in rather dangerous weather.

Whether starting out on a long trip, or just a short drive around the corner, staying safe while driving in ice, heavy rain or snow is a matter of a few key principles.

Start your Engines

Preparation counts! AAA of Northern California recommends first keeping your vehicle in top shape: new wiper blades, a full tank of gas, solid brakes. Second, they suggest carrying emergency equipment: chains, jumper cables, windshield wiper fluid, and supplies of healthy snack foods, water, blankets and jackets.

Green Light: Get Going

When starting from a complete stop in wet or icy weather, a car often slips; this is especially true of rear-wheel drive models. If you have a four-wheel drive, use it! Otherwise, place chains on the wheels controlled by the engine, such as the front wheels for front-wheel drive cars. Some rear-wheel drive cars, primarily convertibles, are not built for chains, but require other traction devices; if so, you are presented with a disclosure during your car purchase.

Weighing down the back of your car also helps to avoid slippage, especially for front-wheel drive cars. Load up your trunk with sandbags, luggage, anything heavy that will give you traction.

Above all, accelerate very slowly - no flooring it!

Yellow Light: Proceed with Caution

The same principles apply in inclement weather as with normal driving - times three. Do not speed, and leave plenty of space between you and the next vehicle.

In cold weather, black ice can cause a car to slip, just as water in a heavy rain can cause hydroplaning, or loss of contact with the road. In both cases, the car simply slides and is not controlled by steering, braking or accelerating. If this happens, steer gently into the direction of the slide. Above all, do not brake or jerk the steering wheel suddenly, as this will actually increase your spin.

Avoid the situation by not steering sharply, accelerating or braking suddenly. While traction control systems in automobiles will help stabilize the car, still use caution; do not brake mid-turn, slow down beforehand and accelerate gently halfway through the turn.

Finally, visibility is key; not only do you need to see, you need to be seen. Turn on your headlights, but avoid your high-beam setting, as the light will reflect off the snowflakes or raindrops and actually make it more difficult for you to see the road.

Red Light: Stopping Safely

If you absolutely cannot see, try to pull off to the side, as long as you are truly off the road and not a hazard to others who are still moving, who may have difficulty seeing you. Turn on your hazard lights, or light flares, to draw attention to your car.

Four-wheel drive does not help you to stop, only to get you moving. To slow down and stop, if you have ABS (an anti-lock brake system), slowly press down on the brake pedal; without ABS, pump the brakes - gently. Suddenly slamming on your brakes is more likely to cause you to spin out.

If conditions are very severe, stay home if at all possible. Decide whether you really need to get out and about, for example to buy food or to pick up family members. That hot date will wait if he's worth your while, and is concerned about your safety!

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