Driving on slippery roads: it’s an art!

Driving in winter: be well prepared!

Properly removing snow and ice from your vehicle is the first step to ensuring a safe drive and good visibility on the roads. When choosing your winter tires, select a model that suits your driving style and the road conditions you have to deal with. In cold weather, make sure you have a winter emergency kit containing everything you need to get by if a problem arises. If you frequently have to travel on icy roads, consider buying studded tires. Even if your vehicle has four-wheel drive, this doesn’t mean it won’t skid.

Slippery roads: Avoid dangerous driving and play it safe!

• Slow down

Adjust your speed to winter road conditions. Driving at a moderate speed will significantly reduce your braking distance, and give you a few extra seconds to react to a problem. Remember that while anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help to keep you on course, they lengthen braking distance.

• Think of others

You’re never alone on the road, so it’s important to give yourself the space necessary to be able to anticipate the possible manoeuvres of other drivers. By maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, you can slow down or change your course as needed.

• Focus on the road

An icy road requires constant attention. Avoid talking on the hands-free phone or having a conversation with your passengers, and turn off the radio. This way, you’ll be better able to focus on the road.

If you start skidding on ice

If you feel your car losing traction, don’t panic: release the accelerator and steer your vehicle in a controlled manner. If the car skids, don’t make any sudden moves. The golden rule when you lose control: look where you want your vehicle to go rather than at the obstacles you’re trying to avoid. If you’re swerving, try to steer away from the path of other vehicles and toward the shoulder to avoid a collision, without driving yourself into a ditch, of course.

Beware of black ice!

While the road may appear dry, watch out for black ice: even a thin layer can be enough to send your vehicle skidding. If this happens, avoid braking hard and gently release the accelerator before lightly pressing the brakes and steering into the skid. Don’t make any sudden moves that could make you lose control. If driving on ice worries you, take a winter driving course and get a roadside assistance service. Forewarned is forearmed!

Cruise control: to be avoided on icy roads!

Does your vehicle have cruise control? Be sure to disengage it before driving on a slippery road. In a skid, this mechanism, designed to maintain a steady speed, will prevent the vehicle from slowing down, which could aggravate the situation.