In the winter, the rate of crashes rises exponentially due in large part to the weather conditions. Ice on the roads proves a huge hazard, especially in areas not well equipped to quickly clear side roads before people need to use them.
Thus, it is important for drivers to understand how to maximize safety while traveling on icy roads.
Know how your car works
Men’s Journal looks into ways to safely navigate slippery roads. One of the first things suggested is to know what the car comes equipped with. Understand the features of modern cars which may require different actions depending on how the driver wishes to use them. For example, a driver with a car that does not have anti-lock brakes can remove their foot from the accelerator entirely. This will keep the car in motion, as the wheels will not lock up or stop.
The ABS system, on the other hand, prioritizes steering before braking. Drivers should then keep their foot on the brake and steer as necessary to avoid slipping on the ice.
Next, if a driver does slip, they should always direct their gaze to where they want to end up. Try not to get distracted or hung up on anything closer to the car, or the body may subconsciously begin to guide the car in that direction.
Oversteering and understeering
Oversteering and understeering also prove dangerous. Oversteering results from the back tires sliding, and drivers can correct it by staying off the brakes and looking in the direction of travel. Understeering happens when the front wheels slip, and drivers should stay off the pedals and try to set the steering wheel straight. When the tires re-grip the pavement, the driver can safely guide the car out of the situation.
Is the town or state responsible for keeping roads safe during the winter?
The town or state, depending on the road, is responsible for clearing snow from the road, putting down salt, cleaning ditches, repairing potholes, and marking potholes and other hazards on the road. These actions can improve road safety and reduce the risk of an accident, especially during winter weather.
