While we don’t experience many snow days in Louisiana, we definitely have our fair share of cold and rainy winter days. The combination of rain and freezing temps can often create icy roadways and dangerous conditions.
With winter will soon come a drop in temperatures, so we're here to give you some tips for driving in icy conditions.
First, prepare for freezing conditions.
Good tires can reduce the risk of a severe accident on slippery roads. New tires with good grips increase the traction that your vehicle can get on slick roads, making it easier to maintain control while you drive. Making sure that the treads are not worn down could be the difference between safe travel and a wreck.
Use your headlights so that other drivers can see you better.
Chances are if the road is icy and slick from rain that has frozen, the sun isn’t out. In dark or even overcast conditions it’s always best to make sure your headlights are on so that other drivers can see your vehicle on the roadway. If it’s raining or snowing, you’ll want to keep your windshield wipers on as well.
Slow down your speed and keep a distance in case your car slides forward.
It's harder to stop on icy roadways, so moving at a slower pace and keeping greater distance is recommended. Dropping your speed to under 30 miles per hour is best and keeping a good distance from the car in front of you will help avoid rear ending them. If you apply the breaks and slid forward, you’ll be thankful for the gap between your car and theirs.
Avoid applying the breaks where possible.
Breaking suddenly makes it difficult for the car to maintain traction on slick surfaces and can cause your car to lose control. When the car starts to skid, it is best to slow down gradually and not immediately brake. This helps prevent a slide from happening. Traveling slowly helps to avoid the need for sudden breaking.
Avoid driving at night and in the early morning hours.
Not only is visibility less during these times of day but there is likely to be more ice on the roads due to lowered temps. Waiting to do your traveling until the sun is out is always best, but we also recommend staying off the road during icy conditions altogether (when possible).
Make sure your auto insurance coverage includes Uninsured Motorist.
With increased risk you’ll want to prepare for a wreck and having as much coverage as possible is key. Having Uninsured Motorist coverage will keep you protected if someone else on the road hits you and runs or just doesn’t have insurance. UM Coverage can also pay for lost wages (if you can’t work because of the accident), pain and suffering compensation, and property damage to your vehicle.
Here in Louisiana it's tough to know exactly when we’ll have icy conditions and therefore we’re often unprepared for those random weather days, but having these tips should help us to all stay safe on the roads.
If you do get injured in a wreck make sure to follow these steps and call us!
If you have questions about any of this, we are more than happy to help answer them. Simply call our office at 337-504-3202.
