Adverse weather accounts for 21% of vehicle accidents.
And with average snowfalls of up to 80 inches in some states, drivers in the United States need to be on guard against the dangers of snow, ice, and slick winter roads.
If you live within the 70% of United States roadways that get covered in snow during the winter, you’ll need to know how to stay safe while driving on icy roads. Keep reading. This guide will teach you the top safety tips for driving on ice and snow so that you can be confident while driving in icy road conditions.
1. Slow Down
The best strategy to stay safe while driving in icy road conditions is also the easiest: keep your speed under control.
Driving more slowly benefits you in multiple ways. You’ll have greater control if you hit an icy patch. And if you do end up in an accident, you will collide more gently, leading to fewer injuries and less damage to your car.
Get in the habit of giving yourself extra driving time in winter road conditions. But remember, slowing down doesn’t mean you’re safe in all conditions. In fact, if you’re driving on black ice, no speed is safe: you can lose control even at very slow speeds.
Use caution at all times in icy conditions, even when you’re taking the precaution of slowing down.
2. Give 10 Seconds of Space
When the roads are bare and dry, your brakes can handle quick stops. But when the roads are slick and cold, even your winter tires will struggle to find traction on icy pavement.
When driving in icy conditions, remember the Rule of 10. It takes 10 times longer to come to a stop on icy roads, so keep 10 seconds of space between yourself and other cars. No matter how fast you are driving, you should be able to count 10 full seconds between yourself and the car ahead of you.
3. Avoid Bridges (Or At Least Slow Down)
With cold winter air surrounding them above and below, Bridges and overpasses stay colder than roads. That’s why they freeze before the rest of the roads do.
If you’re driving in winter conditions, think ahead to the bridges and overpasses in your route. The best option is to chart an alternate route so that you can avoid them altogether.
If it’s impossible to avoid the bridges in your journey, approach them with extreme caution. They’re much more likely to be covered in ice, especially black ice. Slow down as much as possible and keep a generous amount of space between cars.
Stay Safe on Icy Roads
Knowing how to drive safely on icy roads can protect you from injuries and auto accidents. With these tips, you can tackle icy road conditions safely and confidently.
If you do find yourself with car damage from treacherous winter conditions, come by our shops throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania or contact us today. We offer state-of-the-art repair and insurance support.