The best advice for driving in bad weather is not to drive at all. If you must drive, try to wait

The best advice for driving in bad weather is not to drive at all. If you must drive, try to wait until snow plows have had a chance to do their work. If you must drive in snowy conditions, here are some tips:

DRIVING SAFELY ON ICY ROADS

Decrease your speed and leave plenty of room to stop. You should leave at least three times more space than usual between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.

Keep your lights and windshield clean.

Use low gear to keep traction, especially on hills.

Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.

Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first.

Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.

Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel drive vehicles and front-wheel vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

IF YOU GET STUCK

Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper.

Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.

Use a light touch on the gas to ease your car out.

Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.

Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels to help get traction.

Try rocking the vehicle. Shift from forward to reserve and back again. Each time you’re in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going.

Source: The Weather Channel