Driving on ice can be dangerous, but it is not always avoidable. If there is a winter storm, many people still have to commute to work. While it is advisable to avoid driving in poor weather conditions, some people must venture out into snow and ice.
As such, it is important to know how to drive safely in these conditions. Below are a few tips that can help.
1. Give yourself more time
If you are in a rush, you may be tempted to drive faster, shorten your following distance, or increase your speed. All of this is very dangerous in snowy and icy conditions. Give yourself more time to get to your destination, reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
2. Make slow and careful maneuvers
Whether you need to accelerate, slow down or make a turn, try to do so slowly and carefully. Braking is particularly risky, as many drivers lose control when their vehicle begins to slide. It is safer to slow down well in advance, using engine braking, so you can do so gradually.
3. Be wary of hills
Hills can be problematic in icy conditions. When going uphill, you need momentum to keep the vehicle moving and avoid sliding backward, so stopping should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Driving downhill can also be dangerous, as your vehicle may continue to slide as you attempt to slow down at the bottom. It is best to avoid hills when possible and maintain a slow, controlled driving style when you cannot.
Even if you drive safely, you could still be injured in an accident caused by someone else in icy conditions. Take the time to review all of your legal options. That can help you better protect your health, your future and your right to fair compensation.
