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.
The contact that your tire tread makes with the pavement is what allows you to control your vehicle as it “tracks” 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’s 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.
The biggest mistake most drivers make on icy roads is driving too fast. The faster you’re 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’s 4-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD) doesn’t mean it won’t 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.
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:
If your vehicle has antilock brakes (ABS) or electronic stability control (ESC), don’t get lulled into a false sense of security. Although they do keep drivers safer, those features lose their effectiveness when your tires are worn, or if you corner or drive too fast on icy pavement.
When it’s snowing or sleeting, turn on your lights so other drivers can see you. In addition, make sure you can “see and be seen” by:
When winter driving conditions are exceptionally bad, the best advice is to simply stay home whenever possible until the roads have been plowed and salted. This is especially important if you are an inexperienced driver, or when your vehicle’s tires aren’t up to the task.
Even when taking all these winter driving precautions, snow and ice-related accidents happen. When your vehicle gets damaged, bring it to a nearby auto body repair shop and they’ll take it from there. Their experienced collision repair technicians have the training, equipment and know-how to restore your vehicle like-new again promptly and reliably.
Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.
