How to stay safe on slippery roads

Icy roads can cause trouble for drivers, but there are some things you can do to avoid a mishap.

Claire Peralta, Staff Reporter
December 9, 2013

Yet again, Texas weather has surprised us. This time, with a sheet of ice covering the roads, creating extremely dangerous conditions for drivers. The cardinal rule of driving on ice is to avoid it, if at all possible, because even if you drive well in adverse conditions, others may not. However if you must venture out, make certain that your car is able to handle winter’s wrath and you are prepared with tips to handle the road conditions.

Before driving, make sure that you have a fully charged cell phone if needed to call for help.
Keep your gas tank half-full at all times. In extreme conditions, empty gas tanks can build up condensation and cause your fuel line to freeze and your car to not start.
Follow the saying “Drive slow in snow”. Decrease your speed and allow for 3 times more space (8-10 seconds) between you and other cars.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly. This allows for more traction to avoid skidding and potential crashes.
Try to avoid stopping. It takes longer and is more difficult to stop in snow and ice than it does to start, so if you can slow down enough to keep rolling, do it.
Don’t stop doing up a hill. Gain speed on a flat roadway before making a climb, as it is extremely difficult to power up a hill.
Do not use cruise control on any slippery surfaces.
If you begin to skid, don’t over-correct or slam on the brakes. Steer gently into the direction you are skidding, or the opposite direction the front of your vehicle is turning.
If you find yourself stuck, don’t spin your wheels, as it will only dig you deeper into the ground and make it more difficult to get out.
If you find yourself stuck, don’t leave the car. Call for help instead.