by Louis Albornoz

Created on: May 03, 2007   Last Updated: February 17, 2010

Snow and ice, the enemies of vehicular traction. They make driving perilous and often trap motorists in their parking spots. How does one combat these forces of nature when you have to be somewhere pronto?

Well, if your vehicle is trapped by snow or ice there are several things you can do, and with the right tools at your disposal, you won't stay trapped for very long.

Here are some proven methods you can use to escape your snowy/icy parking prison:

1. Use the tried and true method of rocking your vehicle back and forth. This consists of driving forwards and backwards which creates a "rocking cradle" motion that may set your vehicle free. This method only works though if your vehicle isn't surrounded by a foot of snow.

2. Ask some passers-by to push your vehicle. In some places, people will automatically volunteer their help if they see that you're stuck in snow or ice. In other areas, you may have to bribe them. In a worst case scenario, there may be no one around to help you, so onto method #3.

3. Do you carry rock salt or cat litter in your trunk? If you have these items, you probably already know to lay a trail of either in front of your drive wheels. This should provide your tires with enough traction to get going. Don't have either of these items handy? Well then, onto method #4.

4. Break out the shovel! You do carry a shovel in your trunk, don't you? Well, motorists that live in areas prone to snow and ice usually do and for them, getting unstuck is simply a matter of digging and clearing a path for their vehicles. If you don't have a shovel, borrow or buy one. Then dig your way to freedom!

5. If you have rope, chain, or a tow strap in your trunk (good items to carry at all times), you can flag down another motorist and ask them to pull your vehicle free with their own. If no one is willing to do this, or if there is no one around, it is time to call a tow truck. What do you mean you don't have a cell phone? You are the worst prepared driver ever!

Now, here are some questionable methods for escaping your snowy/icy parking prison:

6. Pray for divine intervention.

7. Yell and scream at the weather gods for punishing you and aim your hot breath at the snow/ice that is keeping your vehicle trapped. The snow/ice will melt and you'll be on your way.

8. Wait for warmer weather. As the temperature rises, the snow/ice will melt and your vehicle will be freed with absolutely no effort on your part. Even if you live in a cold climate, global warming will eventually help you out.

Okay, seriously now, having your vehicle stuck in snow or ice is a pain in the butt. Planning ahead though and carrying essential items in your trunk will allow you to minimize this inconvenience. A good driver is a prepared driver.

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