Winter Driving Guide: 4 Tips for Driving in Ice and Snow

Dec 25, 2017

Since Alabama is generally on the warmer side during winter, it’s rare that we have to drive in ice and snow. If we do experience a winter storm, however, stay safe on the road with these four tips for driving in ice and snow.

1. Watch Your Speed

AAA recommends driving slowly in inclement weather conditions, particularly when accelerating. Reduced speed gives you extra time to maneuver and provide safe distance from other vehicles. It’s also important to brake slowly when you need to stop to avoid skidding on slippery roads.

2. Use Anti-Lock Brakes Correctly

To prevent brakes from locking up when caught in a skid, Edmund’s notes the proper procedure for using anti-lock brakes: Stomp on the pedal as hard as you can and hold your foot down while continuing to steer. However, steer into the skid rather than away from it for the best chance of regaining control of the vehicle.

3. Increase Your Following Distance

Conventional wisdom indicates that you should be one second behind the vehicle in front of you for every 10 miles an hour you’re traveling. Double this estimate on slippery roads to ensure you have enough time to stop and prevent a collision.

4. Don’t Leave Your Vehicle

If you get stuck in a snowdrift, it’s much safer to stay in your vehicle and wait for help than it is to get out of the car and take your chances in below-freezing temperatures. To avoid this situation, make sure your cell phone is fully charged before heading out on the road if bad weather is expected.

Image via Flickr by Janitors