Another round of ice threatens Iowa travelers
AMES, Iowa – The National Weather Service is predicting a heavy band of mixed precipitation moving into Iowa tonight and through the early morning hours of Tuesday.
Icy roads may inhibit travel in some parts of the state. Here are some tips on how to drive on ice:
- 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 instinct to slam on your brakes, this will only cause your vehicle to lose control and slide even more. Tap the brake pedal lightly instead of pushing down hard on it.
- If you have an idea that there may be ice ahead (if you see vehicles ahead of you sliding, for example), downshift to a lower gear before you come onto the ice. 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.
- Leave plenty of space between your vehicles and the others on the road. Stay well behind the vehicle in front of you---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 cars start to slide.
- Don't think you're invincible just because you drive a four-wheel drive truck or sports 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. Winter driving is always unpredictable, so be prepared for the unexpected.
The Iowa DOT is recommending travelers pay close attention to weather forecasts, evaluate carefully the need for travel and logon to 511ia.org for the latest road conditions.
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