Drive Safely During Icy Road Conditions

Ground level closeup view of rock salt ice-melt on concrete with snow

Anytime you’re in the driver’s seat of your vehicle, safety should be at the forefront of your mind. Nothing is more important as a driver than getting yourself and your passengers to your destination in Clarksville, TN, or anywhere else without incident. When the roads become icy, your task can be a bit more challenging. Fortunately, there are some tips you can follow to drive effectively on slippery terrain.

Ease Up on the Gas

Speed is one of the leading causes of accidents. Driving too fast can contribute to losing control and colliding with other vehicles or objects. It’s even more important to slow down when the roads are icy. Also, the faster you’re going, the more difficult it will be to stop, especially on the ice. Keep your speed below the speed limit in such conditions. You should never drive faster than 45 mph when the roads are slick.

Keep Your Eyes on the Weather

If you can avoid driving in harsh weather, do so. Stay home when you can, and wait until the weather clears up and the roads have thawed out. Be aware of the weather forecast in the days ahead. If you must drive when the weather is bad, try to delay your departure time when crews can be out to clear the roads.

Go Easy on the Brakes

This may be counter-intuitive, but applying the brakes excessively can cause your vehicle to slide. Antilock brakes are a great tool. However, these will not work effectively on the ice. Instead, drive cautiously and allow plenty of room between your car and the one in front of you. This will prevent you from having to brake too much.

Take Alternative Routes

Maintenance crews will typically address more well-used slippery roads before neighborhood streets and other less-traveled roads. Stay off roads that often get icy. Instead, take roads that are likely to be clear. The chances of you being involved in an accident on an icy road are much greater than on a road that is dry and provides good traction.

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Avoid Hills

Icy roads can be tough to navigate, but hills will be an even bigger challenge in this type of weather. For example, getting up an icy hill will require momentum you may not have. Going down an icy hill puts you more at risk of sliding. If possible, stay away from these types of roads. Also, winding roads can be dangerous. Pay attention to the types of roads you’re driving on, and stay on straighter, less challenging ones.

You can drive safely and get to where you need to go this winter. Be mindful and smart in your driving, and you should be in good shape. The team at James Corlew Chevrolet in Clarksville, Tennessee, can give you some more good tips.

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