Safety Tips While Driving on Icy Roads

If you are worried about getting into an accident while driving on icy roads, then you’re not alone. The best advice is to remain indoors until the icy conditions have been taken care of. By staying home, the risk of getting into a car accident will be zero.

However, there may come a time where you will need to drive on icy roads due to an urgent matter. For such a scenario, you and your vehicle need to prepare for the worst. Here, we will provide you with some safety tips while driving on icy roads.

Top Driving Pointers in Snowy or Icy Conditions

It is important to always decelerate and accelerate slowly. That is, do not press hard on either the car brake or its accelerator. You also need to understand the mechanisms of your brakes.

For instance, if you have ABS, then you should avoid pump-braking. Instead, learn to use it smoothly. In fact, brakes should be used sparingly while driving on icy roads, as icy conditions and brakes tend to not gel very well.

Moreover, going up and down hills in icy or snowy conditions can be arduous. In either case, you need to do everything in your power to maintain momentum by not stopping the vehicle until the hurdle is overcome

It is also imperative that you avoid making sharp turns while on icy roads. Instead, negotiate turns in a gentle manner until you are able to safely park and exit the vehicle.

Your vision of the road must never be impeded while you are driving. Turn on your defoggers and wipers until you reach your final destination.

We would also suggest that you leave an extra vehicle length in front of you while operating your motor vehicle just to be on the safe side. You should drive your car with the lights to increase your visibility on the road.

Finally, avoid using cruise control while you are driving on icy roads in order to reduce the risk of getting into a car accident.

How to Prep for Travel on Icy Roads

You should pack a bundle of gear designed for harsh winter conditions. It should include snow chains, an ice scraper, drinking water, some emergency rations, and a shovel.

We also strongly recommend adding a flashlight, first aid kit, jumper cables, and some warm clothing, and a blanket. You should also check and test your brakes and tires on a routine basis. They need to be in optimal operational condition before you hit the road.

Your defrosters and wipers need to be kept clean. You should remove all ice and snow from your car before you operate it. We would also recommend that you try and conserve fuel whenever possible.

For example, you should only run the heater and engine long enough to eliminate the chill. You should also clear your exhaust pipe of mud, ice, and snow. A clogged exhaust pipe can actually cause a carbon monoxide gas leak that can prove deadly.

Understand Your Driving Conditions and Adapt

Look into the latest driving conditions, such as keeping tabs on the weather, before you hit the road. Be wary of black ice, which appears similar to water, and check your side-view mirrors and wipers for any signs of it. You should also not allow ice to adhere to your windshield. Keep it clean throughout your trip and use your defroster whenever possible.

Sometimes, road signs may be affected by black ice, so pay close attention to road signs as well. In addition, you need to be prudent while driving through ramps, bridges, and under and overpasses in order to prevent car accidents or injury.

In the event of an accident, however, a car accident lawyer may be able to help protect you and obtain the compensation that you need and deserve.

Be Safe Out There

In sum, avoid adverse weather conditions whenever possible. Only operate a motor vehicle in icy conditions if you have no other choice. Keep your car serviced, as doing so will help you navigate through treacherous driving conditions without too much difficulty.

In the event of an accident, dial 911. Then, wait for the police and/or paramedics to arrive. Avoid getting out of the car unless your life is in imminent danger, such as in the event of a gas leak or fire.

Once you have recovered at the hospital, you should contact a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer will help you obtain the justice that you need, and will try to maximize the compensation that you will receive for your pain and suffering.

Source: Winter Driving Tips – AAA Exchange