{"id":1248,"date":"2018-11-08T10:41:32","date_gmt":"2018-11-08T16:41:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.carwise.com\/blog\/?p=1248"},"modified":"2018-11-08T10:41:32","modified_gmt":"2018-11-08T16:41:32","slug":"safe-driving-tips-on-ice-and-snow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carwise.com\/blog\/2018\/11\/08\/safe-driving-tips-on-ice-and-snow\/","title":{"rendered":"Safe Driving Tips on Ice and Snow"},"content":{"rendered":"

As fall transitions into winter across our nation, most Americans will be faced with the added challenge of driving their vehicles on ice and snow.  According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), 70% of U.S. roads are located within cold-weather zones that receive 5 or more inches of snow every winter and that most accidental deaths during those months are attributable to auto accidents.  Statistics compiled at SafeWinterRoads.com indicate that over 900 Americans are killed, and an additional 76,000 injured, every year while driving on treacherous wintertime roads. In other words, driving on ice and snow is a concern for most of us. To help you stay safer this winter, use these precautions.  <\/span><\/p>\n

Check Your Tires <\/b><\/h3>\n

The contact that your tire tread makes with the pavement is what allows you to control your vehicle as it \u201ctracks\u201d down the road.  Ice and snow reduce traction, which can sometimes cause your tires to lose contact with the road. Tire experts recommend at least 6\/32 of-an-inch tire tread at-all-times so that they can grip the pavement effectively.  In areas prone to heavy snowfall, it\u2019s advisable to install winter tires specifically designed for cold-weather conditions. At the very least, have reliable all-season tires on your car that are inspected by a pro before winter sets in.  <\/span><\/p>\n

Slow Down <\/b><\/h3>\n

The biggest mistake most drivers make on icy roads is driving too fast.  The faster you\u2019re going, the less contact your tires make with the pavement, and the longer it takes you to stop.  And, just because you have a car or truck that\u2019s 4-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD) doesn\u2019t mean it won\u2019t skid out of control.  Wintertime bridges and overpasses can be especially hazardous first thing in the morning when most of us are commuting to work or school.  When you see ice and snow, slow down. <\/span><\/p>\n

Practice Skid Countermeasures   <\/b><\/h3>\n

Many drivers have-a-tendency to slam on their brakes when they start skidding on ice, and that tends to make their vehicle spin more out of control.  Instead, practice in an empty snow-covered parking lot how to counter a skid by using these methods: <\/span><\/p>\n