Are you ready for icy roads? Tips to keep inexperienced Georgia drivers safe on black ice
The upcoming winter weather has the potential to wreak havoc on your morning routine. The predicted “wintry mix” could make roads fairly treacherous for inexperienced Southern drivers.
If you must be out on the roads, and the weather predictions prove substantial, there are some ways you can stay safe.
Here are key tips from The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT):
Safer driving techniques:
Slow down and leave more room between cars.
Brake, accelerate and turn gently to prevent skidding.
If you start to skid, steer toward the skid and avoid slamming on the brakes.
Postpone non-essential travel.
Look out for these:
Black ice: This is the thin layer of ice that forms on roads, sidewalks and driveways.
Bridges and overpasses: Black ice is more likely to form here.
GDOT vehicles. Give them room to work, following at least 100 feet behind.
Non-functioning traffic signals: Treat these as four-way stops.
Hazardous conditions: Watch for downed trees, power lines and other hazards.
Have the right equipment
Although you probably don’t have items meant for heavy-snow areas, you can still throw some things in the car, just in case.
Functioning and safe tires: Ensure they have adequate tread depth.
Prepare an emergency kit: Include items like an ice scraper, a portable phone charger and bottled water.
Jumper cables: The chemical reactions in a battery slow down in the cold, reducing the battery’s capacity and power.
A jack and spare tire: This is just smart road safety, but especially in the winter.
Georgia rarely has extreme winter weather, so drivers should keep in mind the inexperience of other drivers. Icy roads and snowy conditions take an entirely different skill set.
