Winter weather can present many driving headaches for drivers, slick roadways being one of them. Most skids can be prevented by simply adjusting driving to the conditions and remembering how to recover if you should come in contact with a slick surface.
Skid-Free Driving
Remember these tips to avoid a dangerous accident when roads are slick:
- Slow down before reaching curves and turns, as most skids occur on these parts of the road. When reaching a curve, apply power slightly and steer steadily with no abrupt changes in direction or excessive braking.
- Plan ahead for lane changes by checking in your rearview mirror and your blind spots to make sure the other lane is clear. Then, turn on your directional and swing over to the other lane in a gradual line. Make this move with the smallest possible steering changes and with a light foot on the gas.
- Watch out for ice patches or piles of wet leaves on overpasses and in shady areas. They are especially slick.
- Anticipate stops by slowing down gradually, well ahead of intersections. Also be aware that approaches to stopping areas will be slick because of excessive starting and stopping traffic.
- Increase the following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. This will give you extra cushioning so that you can stop safely.
- Use only a light foot on your gas pedal when driving in heavy snow. Pushing your gas down hard will only cause your wheels to spin with little or no forward movement. If you go into a skid, remember the following:
- Do not steer against the skid or hit the brakes.
- Steer in the direction that your vehicle is sliding until you feel your wheels recover traction. Then slowly straighten your wheels and keep rolling.
- If braking is necessary before rolling traction is recovered, apply the brake carefully so that you do not lock your wheels and intensify the skid.
AssureSouth wants you to be safe while driving. Contact us today to learn more about all of our insurance solutions for your auto, home and life.
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