Tips for driving on ice
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Driving on ice can be one of the most dangerous situations you could face as a driver. Find out how to drive safely in poor conditions with our best tips for driving on ice.
Watch out for black ice under trees and around bridges.
Keep an eye on the thermometer - below 4 ° C could mean slippery surfaces
Travel slowly and do not brake, turn, or accelerate sharply in icy conditions.
Falling temperatures and winter conditions can create dangerous and icy roads. Although ice can pose a challenge for drivers, with the proper precautions and preparations, you can still travel comfortably and safely.
Being aware of ice conditions and knowing what to do if you start skating is a good start. Here are our top ice driving tips below.
What to do if you start ice skating
If you are traveling in icy conditions and your car begins to skid, there are several steps you should take to ensure that you handle the situation safely.
Don't hit the brakes. You may be inclined to try to stop the car, but braking makes the skid worse.
Turn to the skid. Turn the wheel in the direction you are skidding, this will straighten the vehicle.
Do not accelerate. Needless to say, you don't want to increase speed while skating.
Do not panic. Staying calm will help you handle the situation safely.
In addition to knowing how to handle your vehicle if you start to skid, there are other precautions you can take to limit the possibility of skidding.
Having the correct tire pressure and tread depth will maximize the tires' ability to maintain their grip on the road.
Let go of the gas and brakes if you start to floatplane. Allowing the car to slow down naturally will help the tires grip the road.
Travel slower than the speed limit. Speed limits are maximum in ideal conditions, not for ice.
Avoid sudden maneuvers, acceleration and braking.
Take plenty of time around curves and corners.
What to do if your car starts to lose grip
"Many modern cars have technology that will prevent you from skidding," says Tim Shalcross, head of technical policy at IAM RoadSmart.
“If you see a little amber light flashing on the dash, it's telling you that the car's electronics have saved you from losing grip, but you're driving too fast for the conditions. Slow down and double the distance between you and another vehicle. Treat the gas pedal as if it were mounted on a wine glass stem and it would break easily. "
Although ice can present a challenge for drivers, with the proper precautions and preparations, you can still travel comfortably and safely.
How to Identify Ice Signs on the Road
In winter conditions, when it is naturally darker, it can be difficult to detect ice. However, there are several things to keep in mind to help you prepare for driving on ice.
Ice on the road does not always occur evenly so it may not be obvious to the naked eye and may not cover the entire road. Black ice is more likely on covered parts of the road, such as under trees or bridges.
Leaves covering the road can also prevent ice from thawing, so be careful when driving through areas with lots of fallen leaves. Generally, if the temperature has dropped below 4 ° C, you need to prepare for slippery conditions.
Drive safely on icy roads
It is good to know how to prepare your car for the winter roads and how to overcome the worries you may have while driving during the winter.
Before you set out, use an ice scraper to remove ice and frost from your windows, mirrors, headlights, and license plate. You should be able to see clearly out of all your car windows and out of the side mirrors.
When driving on ice, you can stay safe by:
Drive slowly and carefully.
Keep a good distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
Leaving plenty of room when passing vehicles, especially large sand spreaders.
If possible, use a higher gear and brake slowly and in plenty of time.
What to do if you have an accident on winter roads
If you are in an accident on winter roads, the best thing to do is stay calm.
You should call emergency services immediately, if necessary, and make sure everyone involved is safe and sound.
If you are stranded, it is best to stay with your vehicle and call emergency services to inform them of your position. Turn on your hazard lights and make sure you and your passengers or pets are safe on the side of the road, away from traffic and, if possible, behind a barrier.
What is the advice if your car breaks down in winter?
Icy conditions can cause breakdowns and damage to the car. The most important thing you can do in preparation is to pack plenty of warm clothing and a blanket or two in your boot. It's best not to keep the engine running to stay warm, as it could drain your battery and it may be safer to leave your vehicle, depending on your situation. Instead, wrap yourself with extra blankets and coats.
You should also carry a spare phone charger, reflective vest, and pop-up reflective cone, as these can come in handy during the darkest hours.
Although there are many things you can do to prepare for winter driving, anyone can be trapped by abnormal weather spells or bad conditions. If the weather is bad, only drive if necessary, and if necessary, make sure you are armed with all the knowledge (and layers!) You need to cope.
Be prepared for driving on ice and in tough winter conditions with auto insurance from Safely Insured.