1. Slow Down and Stay Calm
Slippery roads reduce your vehicle’s traction, making it harder to stop or steer. The first rule is to reduce your speed. Slower driving gives you more time to react and helps your tires maintain better contact with the road.
2. Increase Following Distance
On dry roads, a 3-second gap is often enough between you and the car ahead. On slippery roads, increase this to at least 6-8 seconds to give yourself enough space to stop safely if needed.
3. Use Gentle Movements
Sudden movements can easily cause skidding on slippery surfaces. Be gentle with your steering, braking, and accelerating to maintain control of your vehicle.
4. Know How to Handle Skids
If your car starts to skid, stay calm and avoid slamming the brakes. Instead, look in the direction you want to go and steer gently towards it. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure; if not, pump the brakes lightly.
5. Check Your Tires
Proper tires are your first line of defense against slippery roads. Ensure they are in good condition with proper tread depth and correct inflation. Winter tires offer even better grip in snow and icy conditions.
6. Avoid Cruise Control
Using cruise control on slippery roads can be dangerous because your vehicle might accelerate unexpectedly. Always drive in manual control mode when conditions are poor.