by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: November 12, 2009   Last Updated: December 27, 2009

It happens every year when the icy roads come people seem to forget how to drive on those roads. Those first few storms seem like watching grandparents and toddlers on an ice skating rink. Slipping, sliding, bumping, crashing and crumpling seem to be the name of the game. This year lets really be prepared and see if we can change the view.

Tip One: Make sure to have a clear line of vision

If there is frost on the windshield make sure it is all cleared off before putting the vehicle into drive. Have proper windshield wipers designed for the winter conditions. Use the defrost and keep all windows clear. Make sure that the lights on the front and back of vehicle are clean. The goal is to see and be seen

Tip Two: A little steering goes a long way
Feel the back fishtailing a little, do a little turn into the slide. Think small or not at all. If in doubt just hold steady and wait until there is traction. Once the sliding begins the wheels will stay in direction they were going unless the driver makes a correction.

Tip Three: Slow and Steady
It is a fact that the car won't be able to stop quickly. So slow down and give plenty of room between cars and potential hazards. If it feels like everyone is flying by, don't be afraid to move to the far  lane and use flashers. Don't drive faster then your ability to handle the car. This can not be determined by how fast others may be driving.

Tip Four: Four Wheel Drives Slide, Roll and Crash
Four wheel drive does not help a vehicle stay on the road. It helps the vehicle get back on the road when it slides off. Believing otherwise tends to lead to unsafe driving. Icy conditions mean slow conditions.

Tip Five: Understand the Brake System
Anti-lock brakes and standard brakes work differently. Understand what kind of brakes are on the vehicle read in the car manual about how they work in a skid. They have different directions and they perform differently. Icy roads are not the first time one should be wondering about how the brakes work.

Tip Six: Don't Use Cruise Control
Icy roads demand attentive drivers and adjusting speeds. There is not a safe mph to set the cruise control on. The signs are posted for optimum driving conditions.

Tip Seven: Get the Right Kind of Tires
The tires have to be the right kind and they have to be inflated correctly if they are going to work as designed. Ask questions. Take them back to the tire shop if there is something that does not seem right or has not been explained. Those tires are the things keep the car off the ground and on the road.

Tip Eight: Assume that Every Other Driver has No Control
It may sound ridiculous at first, but think about how careful one would drive if every other driver had never been on ice before. Assume they are not prepared and stay away from them.  Distance may be the thing that saves a life.  Wear a seat belt and stay away.

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