Tips For New Drivers Driving On Slick Roads
Driving on slick roads can be very unsafe, more so when visibility is diminished, which is why it’s essential to keep your headlights on when driving at night and in foggy road conditions. There are several other things to keep in mind to ensure your safety when driving on slippery roads, all of which are listed below.
Below are some essential things every new driver should know about driving in slippery conditions.
1. Check Your Headlights, Windshield Wipers, And Blinkers To Make Sure They Are Functional
Some drivers tend to forget how important it is to do routine car checks until their vehicles break down in the least likely situation. To be on the safe side, especially during the rainy season, make sure to check your vehicle and ensure that it’s in perfect condition before taking it to the road.
2. Avoid Using Cruise Control and Never Change Lanes Quickly
Cruise control can be a great deal of help when getting from one point to the other. However, it might not be such a great idea to use it when driving on wet or slippery roads as you need all the steering control you can get at such times. Also, remember not to change lanes quickly or brake hard when driving on slick roads.
3. Keep A Safe Following Distance
Try to create enough room between your car and the one in front of you, at least enough to give you time to react in case the other driver stops abruptly, or their vehicle begins to hydroplane.
4. Don’t Accelerate Quickly
Though it might not seem possible, driving at 35mph on slippery road conditions can cause a vehicle to lose traction. You should also remember that more space is required to brake properly on slippery or icy roads than in normal circumstances.
5. Keep Your Seatbelts On At All Times
Although it’s basically 101 in driving school lessons, don’t forget to strap on your safety belt whenever you’re behind the wheel, especially during slippery road conditions. When you have passengers tagging along, make sure they all wear their seatbelts as well before you head out.
6. Use Skidding Maneuvers If Your Vehicle Begins To Hydroplane
Once you notice your vehicle beginning to skid, try as much as you can not to panic, even though it can be pretty difficult not to. Not all drivers realize this, but a few techniques can be used to get out of a hydroplane or skid. The first step is to take your foot off the gas, avoid using the brakes, then steer your vehicle gently till your vehicle regains traction.
Final Words
Keeping the above defensive driving tips in mind and implementing them when driving in slippery conditions or even normal conditions will ensure your safety and that of your passengers.
