Iowa DOT offers tips for driving in icy conditions

AMES, Iowa - Dec. 27, 2008: 11:45 a.m. update - The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is offering motorists the following tips should it be necessary to travel today under icy driving conditions.

Do not use your cruise control.

Take it slow and drive at a speed safe for conditions.

Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and others on the road. This is definitely not the time to tailgate. Even if you feel confident that you know how to drive safely on ice, that doesn't mean the driver in front of you does. Be prepared in case other vehicles start to slide.

If your vehicle begins to slide, take your foot off the gas pedal and shift into neutral, or if you have a manual transmission, depress the clutch. While it may be a natural reaction to slam on your brakes when you are starting to skid, this will only cause your vehicle to lose control and slide further. Tap the brake pedal lightly instead of pushing down hard on it.

If you see others sliding, downshift to a lower gear. The lower gear will force you to drive more slowly and give you better control of your vehicle.

If your vehicle does begin to skid on the ice, turn the wheel in the direction of the skid. This should help to steer your vehicle back on the right track.

Don't think you're invincible just because you drive a four-wheel drive truck or sport utility vehicle. Four-wheel drive vehicles have no advantage over other vehicles when it comes to driving on ice.

Be sure to wear your seatbelt and demand others in your vehicle use them as well. If you are involved in a crash or run off the road, seatbelts can help reduce serious injuries and prevent fatalities.

The Iowa DOT will be monitoring road conditions and issuing additional alerts, as warranted. For the latest road conditions, visit 511ia.org on the Internet or call 511 (for outside the state or in bordering communities, call 800-288-1047).

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Editor’s note: The Ice and Snow…Take it Slow logo is available at: http://www.iowadot.gov/winterSafety/logos.html