Have you checked the weather lately?  Texas can have all four seasons in one week.  For the next few days, Texas more than likely will experience snow up North and rainy, cold temperatures in areas such as Houston.  But when the temperatures drop and forecast calls for cold weather, keep these tips in mind before getting on the road.

Driving Safely on Icy Roads

  1. Decrease your speed, also leave plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you.
  2. Brake gently to avoid your car from skidding.
  3. Turn on lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
  4. Keep vehicle lights and windshields clean..
  5. Frequently check all fluid levels.
  6. Tires should be at the correct level of air pressure and adequate tire-tread depth.
  7. If driving on hills use low gears to keep traction.
  8. Do not use cruise control on icy roads.
  9. Be careful when driving on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads as these tend to freeze first.

If your rear wheels skid:

  • Take your foot off the accelerator.
  • Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go, for example if your rear wheels are sliding left then steer left.
  • If rear wheels start sliding the other way as you adjust, ease steering wheel toward that side; there may be need to steer left and right to gain complete control of your vehicle.
  • Pump your brakes gently, if you have standard brakes.
  • Do not pump your brakes if they are anti-lock brakes (ABS) instead apply steady pressure.

If your front wheels skid:

  • Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral but do not steer immediately
  • As wheels skid sideways, the vehicle will slow down and traction will return; steer in the direction you want vehicle to go, put transmission in drive and accelerate gently.

From everyone at Premium Insurance we wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year!