How to Drive Safely on Ice: Tips for Staying in Control

Driving on icy roads can be one of the most challenging and nerve-wracking experiences for any motorist. Whether you’re facing a sudden freeze or navigating a snow-covered highway, understanding how to handle your car on ice is critical for your safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide to staying safe when the roads get treacherous.

Prepare Your Vehicle Before You Hit the Road

Preparation is your first line of defense against icy conditions:

Winter Tires: Equip your car with winter tires designed for better grip in cold, icy, and snowy conditions. If you live in an area with frequent ice, studded tires or chains might also be appropriate.
Check Your Wipers and Washer Fluid: Ensure your windshield wipers are in good shape and your washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures. Visibility is key when driving on ice.
Defrosters and Heaters: Confirm that your defrosters and heating system are fully functional to keep your windows clear.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Speed is the enemy on ice. Always drive significantly slower than you would in normal conditions.

Stopping Distance: Braking on ice takes up to ten times longer than on dry pavement. A slow speed gives you more time to react.
Momentum Control: At lower speeds, you’re less likely to lose traction when turning or accelerating.

Smooth Inputs: Steering, Braking, and Acceleration

When driving on ice, abrupt movements can send your car skidding. Practice smooth control:

Steering: Avoid sudden turns of the wheel. Small, gentle adjustments are best for maintaining control.
Braking: Use steady, light pressure on the brakes. If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), let the system do its job—don’t pump the brakes.
Accelerating: Gradual acceleration will prevent your wheels from spinning. If you feel the car slipping, ease off the gas.

Increase Your Following Distance

Tailgating is dangerous under any conditions but can be disastrous on ice. Leave 8-10 seconds of following distance between you and the car in front of you. This gives you plenty of time to react to sudden stops or skids.

Avoid Overconfidence in All-Wheel Drive

While all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) are great for traction when starting from a stop, they don’t help you stop any faster. Drivers with these systems often feel overconfident and take risks, leading to accidents. Drive cautiously regardless of your vehicle’s capabilities.

Know How to Handle a Skid

Even the most careful drivers can experience a skid. Here’s how to regain control:

Front-Wheel Skid (Understeer): Ease off the gas, and gently steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming the brakes.
Rear-Wheel Skid (Oversteer): Turn the steering wheel gently in the direction the rear of your car is sliding to realign the vehicle.
Stay Calm: Panicking and overcorrecting can make the skid worse. Breathe, focus, and react slowly.

Avoid Sudden Hills and Bridges

Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than regular roads, making them particularly dangerous. If possible, take an alternate route. On hills:

Going Uphill: Gain momentum before you hit the incline, and maintain a steady speed. Avoid sudden acceleration, which can cause your wheels to spin.
Going Downhill: Shift into a lower gear and let engine braking control your speed. Avoid heavy braking, which can cause a slide.

Stay Alert for Black Ice

Black ice is nearly invisible, often blending in with the road. Be extra cautious in shaded areas, around bridges, and early in the morning or late at night when temperatures drop. If you suspect black ice:

Avoid sudden movements.
Assume the surface is slick and adjust your speed and spacing accordingly.

Pack an Emergency Kit

Even the best drivers can get stranded in icy conditions. Keep these items in your car:

Blanket or warm clothing
Ice scraper and snowbrush
Flashlight and batteries
Non-perishable snacks and water
A phone charger or portable power bank
Sand, salt, or kitty litter for traction

When in Doubt, Stay Home

If the weather is severe or you don’t feel confident driving, don’t risk it. No trip is worth jeopardizing your safety. Wait until roads are treated or conditions improve.

Driving on ice doesn’t have to be terrifying if you’re prepared and cautious. With the right mindset and techniques, you can safely navigate even the iciest roads.