Myth: If I hit black ice, I should turn in the direction of the skid.
Fact: When you were first learning to drive, your instructor likely gave you the well-intended advice to “turn in the direction of the skid” if you ever hit black ice. The best way to manage black ice is to avoid it all together. If you hear travel advisories and storm warnings, do the prudent thing and stay put. If you’re already on the road when the weather turns nasty and can’t pull over, follow these steps to regain control of your car on black ice.
- Stay calm and don’t hit the brakes.
- Slowly take your foot off the accelerator.
- Shift your car into neutral if you’re driving an automatic or push in the clutch if you’re driving standard.
- Look down the road towards where you want to go.
- Gently steer your vehicle in that direction – it’s hard, but don’t make any sudden or large corrections.
- Once your vehicle is back on track, shift into a driving gear.
- Find somewhere safe to park and stay off the road until the salters and sanders have gone through.
Keep your cruise control off if you’re driving in slippery conditions and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Don’t forget to pay attention to your rear view as well. It helps to know if someone behind you has lost control and is on a collision-course with your car. Remember: it’s time to put the snow tires on when the outside temperature starts hitting 7 degrees Celsius.
Did you know that you could save on your auto insurance if you have winter tires on your vehicle?
Call OTIP today at 1-800-267-6847 to see if your policy qualifies for a winter tire discount.