Seasonal Safety: Expert Tips for Driving on Icy Roads

When winter weather hits, it’s best to stay home and enjoy the snow from behind closed doors and with a mug of your favorite warm drink in your hand. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to avoid driving in bad weather. If you find yourself stuck on the road during icy or snowy conditions, make sure you know how to stay calm and safe. Practice seasonal safety with these expert tips for driving on icy roads.

Brake Responsibly

Sudden braking on slick roads makes it easy to lose control of your vehicle. It’s also damaging to your brake pads and can cause problems for your vehicle. Practice gradual, steady braking that allows you to come to a safe stop. Gentle braking is a good habit to have, no matter what the weather is. Keep in mind that slower stops require greater space between yourself and others on the road. Drive further back from the car in front of you so you have plenty of room to stop safely when you need to.

Keep Winter Gear in Your Car

Bad weather can come out of nowhere—especially in Missouri. That’s why one of our favorite expert tips for driving on icy roads is to equip your car with a few winter essentials. You should always drive with an ice scraper, a blanket, and some spare winter clothes like hats, gloves, and scarves in your car. It also pays to keep a small snow shovel in your vehicle so that you can dig yourself out if you do get stuck somewhere.

Take It Slow

It’s okay to drive under the speed limit during bad weather. Driving slowly gives you more control over your vehicle and helps you stay safe. Taking it slow can also help you feel more confident as you navigate a storm. If you’re on a schedule, make sure you leave early and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination safely.