How to drive on snow, ice and get out of a skid

Don Schwenneker Image
Saturday, January 7, 2017
Winter Weather Special, Part 2
First Alert Mode: Here are some tips for driving on ice.

If you find yourself out on the roads during a snow or ice storm these simple tips may prevent you from crashing off the road.

First: Always drive below the posted speed limit in snow and ice. ABC11's Don "Big Weather" Schwenneker took a skid prevention lesson with the North Carolina Highway Patrol and they didn't allow him to drive above 30 miles per hour. Speed is big when it comes to safe driving in winter weather-- don't panic and slow down.

Second: When you start to skid keep your feet off of the pedals and coast for a little bit. Let up off the gas and don't slam on the brakes.

Third: Start counter-steering. You need to turn your wheels in the same direction your back end is skidding towards. If done quickly enough the car should straighten itself out.

During a skid, turn your wheels in the same direction that your back end is going.

Finally: Keep your eyes on the prize. Look in the direction you want to go, your hands will follow your eyes and you'll end up going where you want to go instead of where you are going.

Watch our winter special in full and get other winter tips here