Winter is coming, and that means possible ice and snow on the roads. These road conditions can be dangerous, especially if you are unfamiliar with how to drive in them. Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving on ice or snow and some ways to prepare for the winter season.
TIRE TRACTION
Make sure the traction on your tires is good enough for winter. For driving in snow, you need at least 6/32-inch deep tread. If you are using high performance summer tires, they likely have little to no traction at all. Change your tires if necessary.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS
When it’s snowing, it’s important to be able to see the road. Check your windshield wipers and make sure they are working efficiently. Never try to use them to clear away ice on your windshield. This will ruin your wipers. Always scrape ice off before driving.
LIGHTS
Make sure your lights are clear and functional. Winter means longer and sooner nights.
BLACK ICE
Watch out for black ice. It looks almost invisible but can be extremely dangerous. If you hit a patch of black ice, take your foot off the accelerator and proceed gently. Do not use your brakes.
OVERSTEERING
Steer in the direction that you want your vehicle to go. If you oversteer while sliding, it could cause you to lose even more control of your vehicle. When your vehicle is sliding or skidding, the wheels have lost their grip on the road; when they finally do regain traction, your vehicle will shoot off in the direction that your front wheels are facing, so if you’re oversteered, this won’t take you where you are likely wanting to go.
SKIDDING
In this situation, it is especially important not to oversteer. Steer in the direction that you want to go and take your foot of the gas and apply your brakes firmly.
CRUISE CONTROL
Never use cruise control in icy or snowy conditions.
WAIT
If possible, wait until the road crew has cleared, sanded, or salted the roads to make them safe for you to drive on.
SLOW
Take your time and stay aware of your surroundings.
LOW GEARS
If you’re travelling over rough patches of ice or snow, switch to a low gear. It will give you more control of your car, and you don’t need to be going too fast anyways.
Car accidents are common during winter road conditions. If you’ve been involved in an accident due to another’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the Kyle Law Firm today for a free consultation.
