Here is a scenario: It is the middle of December, the roads have an inch-thick layer of ice on the surface, and you have to go purchase winter holiday lights and decorations for outside your home. The first thing you want to do is not do that. Unless you are going out to get something you absolutely need, you should avoid driving on icy roads.

Icy roads make a car hard to handle because it is harder for wheels to grip the road. Because of this, braking must be done sooner and cars also run the risk of skidding across the road and into other vehicles or objects.

As mentioned earlier, if you do not need to make a trip, it is recommended you stay at your current location. However, if you do need to make a trip and face icy roads there are a few safety tips you should know:

Replace your windshield wipers and fill-up wiper fluid: Being able to see the road, where you are going, and who else is on the road are essential to road safety. Make sure to use windshield wiper fluid that fights frost.

Purchase tires with proper tread: Many people do not know that there are tires manufactured for winter conditions.

Check for the “snowflake on the mountain” icon that ensures you are buying a tire with enough tread to run on icy roads.

Run your lights: Being seen is just as important as seeing. A glint of light in a snow storm may be able to let somebody else figure out where the road is and can warn him or her of other cars on the road.

Be cautious of “black ice”: “Black ice” is transparent ice that allows you to view the asphalt underneath it. If you see a glare or something that seems like a puddle, you will want to slow down and proceed with caution.

Watch your steering and braking: You do not want to over-steer. Momentum and an icy road are a bad combination. If you brake suddenly or steer suddenly your car may continue travelling in the same direction and speed it had been going before you braked or steered.

Watch for intersections and bridges: These areas tend to accumulate a significant amount of ice. You should also be cautious around roads you know have a history of being under or near water.

For more information on how to prevent a vehicle accident on icy roads or if you need legal advice on an icy road-related accident, contact the Appleton car accident lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. today.