Driving in Icy conditions

Tips on Driving in Icy Conditions

Driving on icy roads can be stressful and challenging. But special attention and care on your part can help you and others stay safe. Only drive in icy, wintery conditions if you must do so. Otherwise, stay home and stay safe! When you do have to go out, do your part to make sure you aren't causing problems for anyone else. You may not see the ice, but it can be on the roads, especially on bridges.

Good Tires

Your tires need to have plenty of tread on them for the icy conditions. If they are in poor condition, they won't give you the traction you need. Routinely get your tires checked by a professional before winter. If you need to replace them, get it done early enough that you aren't driving on ice with tires that can't handle it well.

Clean Windows

All of your windows need to be fully cleaned off for driving safely in icy conditions. Don't give into temptation to only scrape a small area to see out of because it is cold outside. Give your vehicle ample time to warm up and the windows to defrost. Make sure your wipers aren't frozen to the windshield so you can turn them on if you need to while driving.

Stay Focused

Try to relax and stay calm when driving on ice. Stay focused and keep an eye on what is taking place around you. Other vehicles may be driving too fast for conditions or spin out ahead of you on the ice. Be ready for anything. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and the radio turned off. Avoid distractions such as eating or talking to others in the vehicle. Turn off cruise control too as part of driving safely in icy conditions.

Slow Down for Conditions

You may have to creep along at a slow speed to reach your destination when the roads are icy. Slow down and take as much time as you need to. Don't get anxious if other drivers are passing you. If there is only one lane and you see several cars behind you, try to get over to the right when it is safe and let them pass. You should be comfortable with your speed.

It is going to take you longer to stop on icy roads, so leave extra space between you and other vehicles. Pump your brakes and use them to help you slow down when you approach a stop sign or a stoplight. Don't push down on the brakes rapidly as that could cause you to slide. If you do start to slide, let up on the gas and slowly turn your steering wheel in the opposite direction. Slow, steady, and calm are the key.

Carry Supplies in your Vehicle

If your vehicle is light, keep some items in it to help add weight and reduce sliding on ice. Keep other supplies on hand including a shovel, some gravel, and a blanket. Make sure you always have a full tank of gas. If you get stuck, use the shovel to break up the ice around the tires. Try to get traction with the ground below it. Add a few handfuls of gravel around the tires and gently allow the vehicle to rock back and forth. Put it in reverse, turn the wheels the other way, and try to go forward again.

If you ever do find yourself stuck out on the road in icy conditions, tow truck companies are ready to assist you. Give Brockton Towing a call to get you out of a slippery situation! ​