Tips for driving icy conditions

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – AAA recommends driving slowly and gently in icy conditions. They also offer roadside assistance, including towing, if your car gets stuck in ice.

Tips for driving in icy conditions
  • Slow downReduce your speed to account for lower traction. 
  • Accelerate and decelerate slowlyApply gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. 
  • Brake gentlyDon’t slam on the brakes. 
  • Steer strategicallyIf you start to skid, steer to regain control. 
  • Increase following distanceLeave more space between you and the car in front of you. 
  • Maintain visibilityKeep your low beam headlights on. 
  • Keep your tires in good shapeConsider using tire chains. 
  • Prepare for the unexpectedKeep a bag of sand or cat litter, a shovel, and traction mats in your trunk. 
  • Change to a flatter routeIf you hit black ice, do as little as possible.