by Bill Williams

Created on: November 18, 2009

Tips for Driving on Icy Roads

As motorists living north of a certain latitude know, winter can present unique challenges and dicey situations on the road. When the temperature starts to dip, accidents involving the weather increase as drivers cope with ice and snow. With a few precautions and slight changes to your driving technique, you can weather the storm, so to speak, and get to your destination in one piece during the winter months.

Before winter begins in earnest, you should inspect your tires for proper tread and proper inflation. If the tread line is getting low, consider getting new tires. An important safety consideration when driving in inclement weather (or any other time, really) is the ability to maintain traction with the road. A good set of tires will go a long way to keeping your vehicle on the roadway, pointed in the right direction. You should also be sure your brakes have been properly maintained. This includes making sure your brake pads and power brake fluid, if applicable, are in good shape.

As the mercury drops, keep in mind the following suggestions to get you to your destination safely:

1. SLOW DOWN - When you're on an icy or snowy road, the most important thing to remember is to keep your speed down. The faster you go, the less time you have to react if your vehicle starts to slide.

2. MAINTAIN A GOOD FOLLOWING DISTANCE - You should follow this rule at all times on the road, but it is of particular importance in cold weather. If you are too close to the car in front of you, chances are there won't be enough room to stop in time before avoiding a collision. Just as in the rain, your car takes longer to stop on ice or snow. Play it safe and stay 4 to 5 seconds behind the car in front.

3. BRAKE GRADUALLY INTO CURVES - Sharp curves can be quite challenging on an icy road, so take them slowly, without slamming the brakes. This will keep traction with the road. Coming out of the curve, ease off the brakes, accelerating lightly. This part involves a bit feel with your car, so if you sense the vehicle is slipping, stop accelerating and slow down.

4. WHEN FISHTAILING, TURN INTO THE SLIDE - If you begin to slide sharply, turn your steering wheel so that the front of the vehicle is in the same direction as the rear. For instance, if your vehicle's rear is sliding to the right, stop accelerating and turn the wheel to the right to straighten out.

5. FIGURE OUT WHETHER YOU HAVE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES OR NOT - If you brake too suddenly on an icy stretch of road, your wheels will lock up and the car will continue sliding forward. If you have ABS (Anti-Lock brakes), the system will brake and release the wheel repeatedly, helping you slow down. If you don't have ABS, you must pump the brake pedal yourself. Let your foot off the brake and press it back down repeatedly until you feel traction has been regained and the vehicle starts to slow down.

6. STAY ALERT - The best way to avoid accidents is to anticipate them. Reduce distractions and keep your eyes on the road ahead and keep aware of other drivers.

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