Stateside Transfer Ltd.

How to drive on ICE/SNOW for all those affected by the Snowmegadan that happened this week from a former Transportation Safety Manager:

1. Micro-Steering: utilize this technique when snow or ice is on the roadways. This is where you gently and barely move the steering wheel to switch lanes. Large sudden veers to either direction could put you into a spin out.

2. Slow acceleration: any sudden increase in speed will spin the wheels that the acceleration goes to. This could be your rear wheel, front wheels, or all wheels in 4-wheel drive or all wheel drive. Gently push the accelerator and once you start to move stay at the acceleration until the desired speed.

3. Coast method: when encountering ice such as in the picture. Take your foot off accelerator. This allows the vehicle to roll over the snow/ice naturally and can prevent loss of control. This also works over bridges and areas where the roads seem fine and only a short patch is snowy or icy. Keep steering wheel straight and off the accelerator. DO NOT use cruise control in snowy/icy below freezing temperatures.

4. Brakes are NOT your friend!: In these types of conditions your first reaction may be to use your brakes as normal. Hard Braking does not work well on ice or frozen snow and can put you into a skid or uncontrolled slide. Use brakes gently and use the coast method to naturally slow down when approaching intersections and turns. Once your speed is below 25 mph apply braking normally until you come to a stop.

5. Do not drive unless absolutely necessary: the best way to stay safe is to stay off the roads until they are clear. If you must drive. Use the above steps to minimize risk and DO NOT drive in a pack with other cars. One wrong move and everyone is wrecked. Keep a safe bubble around you.

I hope this helps for those who’ve been hit by the snow in places of this country who rarely see it! Drive safe, and God bless!