Almost every driver living in a cold climate region, like Pennsylvania, has had it happen. You’re driving down the road when you hit a patch of ice and start to slide. What do you do next? Some drivers handle it better than others, but we want everyone to know how to stay safe on icy roads. These tips on what to do if your car slides on ice will help you be prepared should you lose control this winter.
What to do if your car slides on ice
Often times, when you hit a patch of ice or turn too aggressively on slick roads, you will feel the rear end of your car start to slide out. When this happens, it’s important not to panic. Just remember to follow these steps, which can help you potentially get out of a skid:
1. Do Not hit the accelerator
When you’re trying to get out of a skid, applying more power won’t help. Remove your foot from the gas pedal first.
2. Do not apply the brakes
When you lose control of your car, your first instinct is going to be to brake. Do not hit your brakes if you start to slide on ice. If you push down on your brakes, it will make the sliding worse – especially with anti-lock brake systems.
3. Steer gently in the direction of the skid
If the rear of your vehicle is sliding to the right, then turn the steering wheel to the right, and vice versa. It’s important, that you do so gently and avoid jerking the steering wheel.
If your front wheels begin to slide, take your foot off the accelerator and allow the vehicle to slow. After a few seconds, if you still don’t have control of your vehicle, lightly press the brake, very gently.
When correcting the first slide, if the vehicle starts to skid in the other direction, follow the same steering advice until your car is headed straight and through the slide.
To avoid skidding on ice, one tip reigns true: slow down. Whether that’s decelerating around turns, applying the brakes and accelerator slowly, or just staying a few miles per hour under the speed limit, decreasing your speed will decrease your chances of losing control.
If you do lose control of your vehicle as it is sliding on ice, try not to panic. Just remember the steps above. Of course, even more important than learning what to do if your car slides on ice is learning how to drive safely in the winter. To learn more tips on other winter driving skills, read our article here! For more ways to protect you and your loved ones this winter, just call us at 724-929-2300 today! We can tailor a policy to fit your needs and will save you hundreds on the right auto, home, or life coverages for you. Save more time and money when you let us do the comparing for you.