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 down: Reduce your speed to account for lower traction. 
  • Accelerate and decelerate slowly: Apply gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. 
  • Brake gently: Don’t slam on the brakes. 
  • Steer strategically: If you start to skid, steer to regain control. 
  • Increase following distance: Leave more space between you and the car in front of you. 
  • Maintain visibility: Keep your low beam headlights on. 
  • Keep your tires in good shape: Consider using tire chains. 
  • Prepare for the unexpected: Keep a bag of sand or cat litter, a shovel, and traction mats in your trunk. 
  • Change to a flatter route: If you hit black ice, do as little as possible.