When the winter weather hits, it’s very important to know how to drive on the snow and the ice. The loss of friction and control can be very disconcerting for new drivers, but there are steps to take to navigate the road safely.
What are some things you should keep in mind this year? Below are a few helpful tips:
Make slow maneuvers
Everything needs to be done slowly when you’re driving on the ice. This includes acceleration or deceleration. It also includes turning. Many people lose control when they take a turn slightly too fast, at a speed that would have been fine on dry pavement.
Increase following distances
One of the best things you can do is to leave your home earlier than you think you need to start. This extra time allows you to drive slowly and with larger following distances. Don’t hurry, don’t tailgate and give yourself enough space to stop if necessary.
Turn off the cruise control
Cruise control is very helpful in the summer, especially on the interstate. But it can be very dangerous in the winter. If your car loses traction on the ice, it’s best not to push the brakes. You just want to take your foot off of the gas and let the car slow down gradually. But if your cruise control is on, taking your foot off of the gas does nothing and you could lose control.
Unfortunately, even when you drive safely, other drivers can cause serious accidents and injuries. If you have been involved in such a crash, it’s important to understand your legal options. Please give us a call today at the Quinn Law Firm by dialing 814-833-2222.
