Tips for Driving on Wintry Roads

One of the best tips for driving on icy roads may be—don't drive unless you have to. But if you are out in your vehicle on wintry roads, here are some tips for driving on ice and snow from The Weather Channel.

It starts with your car being ready for the drive. Here's one way you can be prepared right away, by carry the following in your trunk:

• A properly inflated spare tire
• shovel
• jumper cables
• bag of salt or cat litter
• flashlight
• exterior windshield cleaner
• ice scraper and snow brush
• non-perishable foods with high-energy like unsalted canned nuts and dried fruits, hard candy
• blankets, heavy woolen mittens, socks and a cap

The Weather Channel provides information on additional items to pack and gives further details on some of the items listed above.

Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

• Drive slower than usual.
• Leave yourself extra room to stop — at least three times more space than usual between your car and the car in front of you.
• Break gently to prevent skidding. If your wheels start to lock, ease up on the brake.
• Turn on your car lights.
• Use low gears for traction, particularly on hills.
• Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses and roads less traveled—they'll freeze first.
• Don't pass snow plows or sanding trucks, their drivers' visibility is limited.

The Weather Channel gives additional details and tips, plus advice on what what to do if your rear or front wheels lock, or you get stuck out on the road.