Winter weather can present many driving headaches for drivers, slick roadways being one of them. Driving conditions have been less than ideal lately and with several more months of winter ahead of us, we couldn’t think of a better time to talk safe driving tips for slick roads.

Most skids can be prevented by simply adjusting driving to the conditions and remembering how to recover if you should come in contact with a slick surface.

Remember these tips to avoid a dangerous accident when roads are slick:

• Slow down before reaching curves and turns.
• Plan ahead for lane changes by checking in your rear-view mirror and your blind spots to make sure the other lane is clear. Make this move with the smallest possible steering changes and with a light foot on the gas.
• Watch out for ice patches or piles of wet leaves on overpasses and in shady areas.
• Increase the following distance behind the vehicle in front of you.
• Anticipate stops by slowing down gradually, well ahead of intersections. Also be aware that approaches to stopping areas will be slick because of excessive starting and stopping traffic.
• Use only a light foot on your gas pedal when driving in heavy snow.

If you go into a skid:

• Do not steer against the skid or hit the brakes.
• Steer in the direction that your vehicle is sliding until you feel your wheels recover traction.
• If you must, apply the brake carefully so that you do not lock your wheels and intensify the skid.

Be sure to check out our Resource Centre for other great tips, tricks, and resources to make your life a little easier. Of course, we’re always here to help, so please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.