Stopping on slippery surfaces requires longer seeing, following and stopping distances. Drivers proficient at driving and braking on slippery surfaces have acquired these techniques by practicing in secluded areas beforehand. These drivers are also knowledgeable of the additional dangers associated with and created by temperature changes at 32°F—stopping distances on ice are twice as great as at 0°F—and certain roadway areas such as shaded spots, bridges, overpasses and intersections. These are areas where ice is likely to form first or be the slipperiest, because the shiny ice surface has either been polished by previous vehicle traffic, or a thin layer of water covers the melting ice below. To compensate for the longer stopping distances required when driving on slippery surfaces, focus your attention as far ahead as possible (at least 20 to 30 seconds) and allow for the greatest margin of safety to the front. When road conditions change, so do the braking requirements.

Next: Braking On Ice & Snow >>