AAA Expert Tips for Driving Safely on Icy Roads

Dangers of Winter Driving

• ⚠️ Driving on icy roads is extremely dangerous, leading to approximately 500,000 crashes and 2,000 fatalities annually in the U.S.
• 🚗 Texans are particularly unaccustomed to these conditions, making it crucial to slow down and avoid unnecessary travel.

Essential Driving Adjustments

• ↔️ Increase following distances to 8-10 seconds to allow more time to stop.
• 🚦 Drive according to the conditions present, not the posted speed limit.
• 💡 Avoid using cruise control on icy roads to maintain full control of the vehicle.
• 📵 Eliminate distractions, especially smartphone use, by putting the phone away or having a passenger manage it.

Safety During and After a Crash

• 🚗 If involved in a crash, stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on if it is safe to do so, and call for help from within.
• 🚶 Getting out of the vehicle on icy roads increases the risk of being hit by other vehicles or slipping.

Vehicle Preparation for Winter Conditions

• ⚠️ Never start your engine in an enclosed area like a garage due to carbon monoxide poisoning risk.
• 🌡️ Check tire inflation as cold weather reduces pressure, impacting traction.
• 💧 Ensure antifreeze and coolant levels are topped off.
• 💡 Verify that all lights and signals are working properly.
• ❄️ Remove all ice and snow accumulation from your vehicle before driving to prevent it from flying off and causing accidents or distractions.