The winter season is here and we will experience snowy and icy days. Here are some tips from Sibcy Cline Insurance Services for driving safely to and from your home:

Icy Roads

• Slow down and leave plenty of room to stop. Allow at least three times more space than usual between your car and the car in front of you.
• If you need to brake, do so gently to avoid skidding.
• Keep your windshield clear.
• Use low gears to keep traction.
• Be very careful when traveling along overpasses and bridges as these type of roads freeze first.
• Remember, even four-wheel and front-wheel vehicles can skid on ice.
• If you do start to slide, remove your foot from the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If you have standard brakes, pump gently. If you have anti-lock brakes, do not pump. Use steady pressure (you will feel the brakes pulse.)
• If your front wheels skid, remove foot from the gas pedal and shift to neutral. Do not steer. As the wheels skid sideways, they should slow the vehicle and traction should return.

If You Get Stuck

• Do not spin the wheels. This will dig you deeper.
• Turn wheels from side to side. Use a light touch on the gas and try to ease the car out.
• You may need to use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels. Use gravel, salt or kitty litter to help with traction.

Best Cars for Snow
Go here to see the Forbes list of the best vehicles for snow.

Be Prepared
Go here to see the 10 items you need to keep in your car as a “Winter Survival Kit.” The only item missing from this list is a whistle to alert for help.

Other Tips

• Keep your gas tank full so you do not become stranded.
• Tell someone where you are going before heading out on icy roads.
• Check your tires! Do you have enough tread?
• Postpone a trip. Let the road conditions become more drivable.