- Increase following distances. It takes longer for vehicles to stop because tires have less traction on ice. Experts recommend staying 10 vehicle lengths apart from other cars and trucks on the road.
- Brake slowly. If you hit the brakes too hard, you're likely to skid on ice.
- If you plan to turn, use your signal sooner than you would normally. That gives other motorists more time to react.
- Limit lane changes. Any time you turn the steering wheel — especially abruptly — you risk skidding.
- Be very careful crossing bridges. Ice will remain on bridges long after it's melted off roads.
- Beware of black ice! In time, ice may appear black and not be easily seen. That's especially true on bridges, overpasses and beneath overpasses.
- Don't use cruise control. It's not designed for driving on ice. Your vehicle may accelerate too quickly and you might start skidding.
Don't spin your wheels. Tires have more traction when you're going slow and the tread can grip the ice. Accelerating to the point that your wheels spin decreases the effectiveness of the tread.
Got a tip? Email Mya Nicholson at mnicholson@kera.org.
Mya Nicholson reports for KERA's government accountability team. She studies broadcast journalism at the University of North Texas.
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