Safety Tips for Driving Slick, Snow-Covered Roads

Expert says not panicking is important

By Alexis Fernandez
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Story Created: Feb 10, 2012 at 11:46 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Feb 10, 2012 at 11:46 AM AKDT

Driving on snow-covered roads is part of living through Alaskan winters. And with the changing temperatures and freeze up at night, driving conditions can be unpredictable.

“We all share the risk of driving; yes it is trust, trusting the other driver to do what he or she needs to be doing on the road, “ said Albert Felder, an instructor with The Driver’s Seat driving school in Anchorage.

But it’s a trust that drivers sometimes violate. Felder says it comes down to being prepared for the unexpected.

“Ninety percent of all accidents occur in intersections. Why? Because people aren't paying attention to what is happening in and around them,” he said.

He says one of the most common mistakes drivers make when they're about to go into a ditch, hit black ice or slick roads, is panic.

“Panicking can increase your adrenaline system to where you begin to lose focus, you begin to lose attention,” he said.

Another tip to keep in mind, Felder says, is to turn your wheel the direction you want your vehicle to go, and pump your brakes a few times if you don’t have anti-locks in your car.

But most importantly, be aware of what's ahead.
 

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Albert Felder said on Friday, Feb 10 at 4:52 PM

When Sliding do not pump breaks...In fact you ought to stay off the breaks and steer in direction of slid...Any questions please CALL:646-9888

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