Chances are likely you’ve have seen the result of a driver that has lost control of their vehicle while traveling over icy roads. While it is really best to remain safe at home when the roads are bad, sometimes this is not practical or possible. Learning the best way to deal with unsafe roads is a necessary precaution for those of us who are venturing outside of Asheville and into areas that are blessed (or cursed) with both snow and ice. Here are ten tips for driving during these types of conditions.
Tires– Make sure your tires have at least 6/32-inch deep tread. While you may assume that all-season tires meet this standard, many do not. In general, new passenger-car tires have 10/32-inch deep tread. Regular driving in winter conditions is best done with the use of snow tires. These types of tires have an image of a mountain with a snowflake on the sidewall.
Wiper blades– A simple, yet often over-looked precaution is to replace windshield wiper blades. You need to be aware of your surroundings and clear, unimpeded vision is a necessity. Blades should be replaced yearly at a minimum, though every six months is ideal. Blades that are cracked or have discoloration are due to be replaced, as are those that streak or don’t wipe the intended surface area, or make noises. You can also apply a water-shedding material to the outside of your windshield, and make sure the windshield washer system is filled with anti-icing fluid.
Lights– Headlights are not just made to help you see well. They are also important to enable other drivers to see you. Make sure your headlights are working, and that they are free of snow and other debris. If your headlights are sand-pitted, it’s time to get new lenses. You can prevent future pitting by covering your lenses with clear tape or shields that are available from auto-racing supply stores.
Brakes– Anti-lock brakes are fairly common in newer vehicles, but you have to know how to use them. Stomp, stay, and steer is a good way to remember: stomp on the brake, hold your foot down on the pedal, and steer around the obstacle. On icy roads, you want the resulting pulses to be about one second apart so you may need to ease up a bit on the brake until the system is working at this speed. If your vehicle does not have an ABS system, you will need to push on the brakes until the wheels stop turning, release the brakes until the wheels start to turn again, then repeat this sequence until you regain control of the vehicle.
Steering– Although it certainly runs counter intuitively, steering against a slide across the ice is not going to help. Once a car is sliding, it will continue to slide regardless of how hard you turn the wheel. Jerking the steering wheel can even pose a risk once your vehicle regains traction.
Be aware– Black ice is an especially dangerous hazard. Be cautious of roads that appear slick or wet. Also, whenever possible, be aware of areas that are prone to dangerous conditions such as bridges and intersections. Proceed with caution and stay focused on your vehicle, your driving, and your surroundings.
If you must venture out, these tips will help but they certainly cannot prevent all accidents from occurring. Stay safe on the roads. Buckle up and take your time. Your destination will still be waiting for you.
