Icy Driving

Icy+Driving

Icy roads driving tips:

According to icyroadsafety.com and exchange.aaa.com, these are six tips that will help reduce the risk of crashing on icy roads.

  1. Reduce speed – It takes longer to slow down on icy roads, and this will reduce the risk of sliding
  2. Increase following distance – the original 4 seconds should be changed to 8-10 seconds
  3. Don’t keep accelerating – your tires might spin
  4. Avoid hills – If you have to go up a hill, try to let the speed from your car carry you to the top; if you press on the gas, your wheels might spin
  5. Don’t stop unless you have to – try to slow down enough to keep the car rolling until the light changes
  6. Don’t apply much force to your breaks – your wheels might lock up, and you will lose control

Icy car removal tips:

  1. Start the car, and let it idle to warm up.
  2. If there is thick ice on windows, buy an ice scraper to remove the ice.
  3. Another alternative would be to put rubbing alcohol into your windshield washer fluid tank. Spray your car windows with a saltwater solution, not just regular hot water.
  4. Apply an alcohol and water solution to the windows. A store-bought product is an option.
  5. Use a squeegee, soft-bristled brush or your windshield wipers to clear the windshield of residue.
  6. Alternatively, cover your car with a tarp overnight to prevent ice formation.  

What to keep in your car during the winter season:

According to www.palegaladvice.com, these are a few things that you should keep in your car during the winter season.

  1. Ice Scraper and snow brush
  2. Gloves and other winter clothes
  3. Blanket
  4. Shovel if possible
  5. First Aid-Kit
  6. Jumper Cables
  7. Flashlight and emergency flares
  8. Water and non-perishable snacks

Driving Statistics:

In 2016, 44.5 million people were victims of injury due to icy roads across the country. As stated by ops.fhwa.dot.gov, each year when there is sleet on the road, almost 900 people are killed and almost 76,000 people are injured in car crashes.