SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — With cold weather pushing into the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry, it's always a good idea to brush up on how to drive on icy roads.
To start, the best option is to avoid driving as much as possible.
Staying off the road in dangerous conditions is the best way to avoid a wreck, but it's not always an option. For those situations, here are some tips to consider before hitting the road.
Slow and steady
Taking it low and slow can help you maintain control of your vehicle and give you more time to react if you do hit ice. Speeding makes it easier to lose control and makes it more difficult to stop. Even if you're confident in your abilities, going much slower than you think that you need could save you from a wreck.
If you start sliding or fishtailing, which is when you lose control of your back tires, then you're likely going too fast.
Let off the brakes
Do not slam on the brakes if you hit ice or feel like you're losing traction! Hitting the brakes while sliding can cause your wheels to lock up and you can lose control of your car. Hold the steering wheel steady and let off the gas completely.
Keep a larger following distance
The closer you follow someone, the more likely you are to possibly slide into them. It also puts you at risk of being involved in a wreck if the car in front of you loses control.
Doubling your following distance can help give both of you space incase anything happens.
Wear your seatbelt
You should wear your seatbelt all the time, but in dangerous conditions, it's even more important. If you slide off the road or into another vehicle, your seatbelt can save your life.
Avoid hills or known dangerous roads
You should try to avoid inclines, declines and winding roads in icy conditions. It's possible to lose traction when trying to go up a hill which can cause you to slide back down at a quicker rate.
Declines and windy, curved roads can cause your car to speed up, making it harder to stop and putting you at risk for losing control.