Tips for Driving on Snowy & Icy Roads

Apr 1
15:15

2013

Jordan Perch

Jordan Perch

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The following is an article about driving on icy roads. It will provide you with several tips about what the best driving techniques are and what equipment you need when you have to drive on icy roads.

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Driving a motor vehicle can be a pretty complicated thing even in the best weather conditions,Tips for Driving on Snowy & Icy Roads Articles and you must have the skills and be alert and focused on the road at all times. Driving in winter, on icy roads is even more difficult and complicated. You need to be extra careful and know how to handle steering, braking, accelerating, and turning, among other things. Plus, you have to equip your car with the right set of tires, and snow chains.

If you don't want to have troubles on an icy road, one thing that can help you with that is making sure to hit the road early and give yourself enough time to get to your destination, so that you don't have to drive too fast, which is very dangerous in such conditions.

First and foremost, you have to drive slowly and well below speed limits. Speed limits should be obeyed at all times, but it's even more important when driving on icy roads. Also, you should avoid getting too close to the vehicles in front of you, so that you can leave enough space for braking and avoiding a collision in case the car ahead of you stops suddenly. Skidding is one of the most common issues that occur when driving in winter. You can avoid skidding if you don't accelerate or brake too hard, and if you don't make too sharp or sudden movements with the steering wheel.

Going into corners on icy roads is another huge concern. What you should do is start slowing down way before you get to the corner, otherwise you'll have to hit the brakes hard, and that's how skidding occurs. Also, change gears before you start turning, and then slowly accelerate once you get into the corner.

As far as equipment is concerned, you can't use regular tires for if you need to drive on ice. They must not be too worn, and there has to be enough tread on them. Additionally, putting snow chains on your tires will give you even better traction, which is very important.

Once you drive through your driveway and get on the road, you must be aware of all the dangers the slippery surface brings and use some specific driving techniques so that you don't jeopardize your safety.

Lastly, the type of vehicle your drive can make a huge difference, as well. If you can afford it, you should get a 4-wheel-drive vehicle, that also has an electronic stability control system.

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