Icy roads are just a fact of life in the winter. If you're lucky you'll be spared from having to drive on icy roads, but you've probably got a better chance of winning the lottery. If and when it comes time for you to brave those wintery roads, whether going to work or dropping the kids off at school, here are some tips for driving on icy roads.

Anti-lock brakes vs. Traditional brakes

There is a difference in the way you apply your brakes if you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS) than if you have a traditional brake system.

Because ABS brakes are self adjusting, apply an even pressure to the brake pedal without pumping them. Your brakes will automatically adjust, and accommodate your attempt to slow down and or stop. Traditional brakes need to be gently pumped in order to avoid having them lock up which will cause you to lose complete control of your vehicle.

Handling a skid

Front-wheel-drive - Skidding on ice roads is the number one reason for accidents during the winter. If you feel your vehicle start to skid do not use the brakes at all. Take your foot off of the accelerator until you feel the vehicle regain traction. Then gently turn your steering wheel in the direction you want the front tires to go.

Rear-wheel-drive - When you begin to skid, take your foot off of the accelerator, and steer the car in the direction you want it to go. If your vehicle does not come out of the skid, gently counter steer in the opposite direction until your vehicle starts to turn in the direction you want it to go.

Above all else, you should consciously drive slower on icy roads. Braking time is diminished considerably, and your ability to turn, and maneuver properly, isn't the same as turning on clear roads. Because it takes twice as long to stop your vehicle on icy roads you should keep at least five car lengths behind the car in front of you, no matter how fast you are traveling

Because the engine of a front-wheel-drive vehicle rests on the drive wheels, it handles considerably better than a rear-wheel-drive vehicle which has virtually no weight on the rear wheels of the vehicle. Although front-wheel-drive vehicles handle much better in icy conditions, do not assume that you are always in complete control of your vehicle; you're not. Drive any vehicle you are operating as if it were a rear-wheel- drive vehicle to be safe. Placing some sort of weight in the trunk of your rear-wheel-drive vehicle will offer a little bit of weight on the drive wheels and improve handling of your vehicle; bags of kitty litter or sand work well.

Be aware that areas of the roadways that are not exposed to direct sunlight or are open to more cold air flow around and over them are more hazardous than other areas. Bridges, overpasses, and tunnels are more susceptible to icy conditions, as well as areas of the road that are shaded.

More tips

Always read the safety instructions located in your vehicles owner's manual about driving in inclement weather.

Keep your windows clear of all snow and ice for good visibility.

Try to drive on the section of road that allows your vehicle to have the best traction. Unpacked snow will allow for better traction.

Reduce speed when entering into a curve in the roadway or when turning.

Do not accelerate suddenly.

Never apply brakes once you're on top of ice. Always apply before.

Make sure your tires are equally pressurized for better handling.

The best way to handle icy road conditions is to avoid driving all together, if possible. This isn't always feasible, but when it is, stay home. When it's not, take public transportation whenever possible. Even just a thin layer of ice can mean the difference between safe and dangerous driving conditions.

Learn more about this author, Cyndi Li.
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