Driving in Icy Conditions
A Sobering Reminder
Winter driving is more than just knowing how to deal with snow. As commuters realized earlier this month, the real threat is ice.
Many of us experienced the dangerous driving conditions on Wednesday, January 5, when all of Westchester County encountered an ice storm starting in the early morning hours. Unfortunately, there were a multitude of injuries, a great deal of property damage and, sadly, a fatality on the entrance ramp to the Bronx River Parkway.
How to Prepare for Icy Roads
How can we be better prepared when the next ice storm is upon us? The best advice is: Don’t drive on icy roads. That is the smartest way to avoid an accident. If you do find yourself on the road in icy conditions, here are some tips to consider:
- Always wear your seatbelt. This is important at all times, but even more so in the winter.
- Check on the weather forecast. This should be a daily routine and will help you to be aware of upcoming driving conditions.
- Don’t stop for accidents or stranded vehicles along an icy roadway. The best way to assist is to call 911.
- Do your best to avoid hills or other dangerous roads during icy conditions.
Tips From The Weather Channel
In addition, The Weather Channel has offered several steps to consider when coming upon ice on the roadway.
“When you know you’re going to encounter black ice, if you are able to swerve around it safely, do so. If you hit it before you see it and your car swerves, don’t panic. Don’t slam on the brakes. Take your foot off the gas to slow down, keep the wheel as straight as you can, and if you feel the ice pulling your back wheels to the right or left, gently turn the wheel in that direction. If you can’t regain control and you are going to spin off the road, aim for an area that will cause the least amount of damage.” See the full article here.
Stay safe this winter by avoiding hazardous driving situations. There is nothing so important that it is worth getting into an accident.
