When driving on slippery surfaces, remember: traction is greatest just before the wheels spin. Gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal when starting is the best method for retaining traction and avoiding skids—especially if your vehicle is not equipped with a traction-assist device. If your wheels start to spin, let up on the accelerator until traction returns.

Once underway, keep going. When approaching a hill, observe how other vehicles are reacting and keep far enough behind the vehicle immediately ahead so that you will not have to slow down or stop. This will allow you to maneuver around any stuck vehicles and to increase your speed (within reason) at or near the bottom of the hill to give you the extra momentum to carry you over the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed down the hill as slowly as possible. Minimize brake use on very slippery, icy hills; if further speed reduction is needed, gentle, slow brake application (squeeze braking) is recommended to avoid locking the wheels and skidding.

Normal dry pavement following distance (2 to 3 seconds) should be increased to 8 to 10 seconds when driving on icy, slippery surfaces. This increased margin of safety in front will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.

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