Winter driving conditions can present a challenge. It means you have to move slowly, turn slowly, and brake slowly. Also, not all cars respond the same to slippery roads. For that reason, knowing how to handle your vehicle and how it responds in various weather conditions is important. AAA even recommends that motorists practice slow-speed maneuvers on an empty snow or ice covered parking lot. Here are some things to keep in mind as you head out into the open road.

3-Car Distance Rule The most important thing to remember when driving on slick roads is that you must travel, steer and brake more slowly than usual. The distance needed to stop on ice is twice as long as that you would need to brake under normal driving circumstances. This means you should keep at least a three-car distance from the vehicle directly in front of you. Remember that tires that are in proper working condition and are adequately inflated also provide better traction.

Steering Out of a Skid The biggest problem facing most winter drivers is skidding on slick, icy or snow covered roads. It is possible to steer out of a skid! First of all, do not panic. Once you feel your car begin to skid, slowly remove your foot from the accelerator, until you feel your wheels regain traction control. Do not attempt to brake! As your vehicle’s tires grab the road, slowly turn the steering wheel in the direction you want your front wheels to go (into the skid).

Beware of Black Ice Certain areas of roadways, because of location or lack of direct sunlight, are almost always more hazardous than others. Use extra caution when driving on bridges, overpasses and tunnels. What is known as “black ice” commonly forms on roads that wind around lakes and rivers, in tunnels, on overpasses and in highly shaded, rural areas. Black ice is almost invisible to the naked eye. Be especially leery when driving your car into shaded areas, and slow your vehicle down during your approach.

Learn to Handle Curves To maintain better control of your vehicle, reduce speed just before the turn. Any sudden acceleration or deceleration during a turn can send you into a skid.

Never brake while driving on ice. If you are approaching a patch of ice, brake during your approach. Applying pressure to your brakes while on ice will only throw you into a skid. Monitor vehicles in front of you and steer clear of areas where they spin wheels or slide backward. Unpacked snow will give most vehicles sufficient uphill traction.

Ensure Good Visibility Simply by clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle you can improve your visibility. It might not seem like any big thing but be sure to remove ice and snow from hood, roof, trunk, turn signal lights, tail and headlights, windows, mirrors and fenders before you take off. Also, always use your low beams when driving in an ice or snow storm. You’ll have better visibility.

Reconsider Speed Limits Remember that these limits primarily refer to safe speeds during ideal weather conditions. Always slow down while driving on snow or ice. When driving uphill on ice, pick a path that will allow the most traction. Allow for greater stopping distances during snow and ice storms. In order to bring your car to a safe stop, you must allow 8-10 seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Here are some more driving tips that will help you get where you want to safely and with a minimum of stress.

• Allow extra time, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start to allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.
• When it’s foggy, stay to the right of the roadway and turn on your headlights-day or night-to low beam.
• Check weather conditions before heading out. Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Let someone know of your destination and expected time of arrival.
• Wear comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict your movement while at the wheel. Keep warm clothing for getting out of your vehicle.
• After starting your vehicle, wait for the fog to clear from the interior of the windows so you will have good visibility all around.
• Have sufficient windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and make sure that it is rated for your anticipated temperature range. Keep an extra jug in the vehicle.

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