No slipsliding away: How to stay on road

Unpredictable weather can cause reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions that make it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. Fortunately, there are ways drivers can protect themselves, their passengers and their cars.

The following tips can help drivers stay safe when faced with treacherous roads:

•Assemble a winter emergency kit. At a minimum, it should contain a blanket, boots, shovel, nonperishable food and a flashlight.

•Plan ahead for stopping and turning. "Feather" the brakes when approaching a stop, especially if the road is slick. If turning, accelerate very gently through the turn.

•Don't make any sudden moves. Keep it slow and steady to maintain control.

•Be cautious when braking in icy conditions. Coast over ice. Brake after reaching bare pavement. Never slam on the brakes. Brake gently in a pulsing fashion.

•Steer into a skid. Remember, locked wheels lead. If the rear tires are in a skid and "locked," the rear of the car will start sliding to lead the car down the road. If this happens, steer into the skid, not away. Don't brake during a skid.

•For drivers who follow these tips but still find themselves in a crash, just remember that what one does after an accident can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe and in helping the insurance company work through a claim.

Follow these tips after an accident:

•Stay calm. Stay at the scene but move off the roadway. Warn oncoming traffic by activating the hazard warning lights and/ or setting flares.

•Call the police.

•Contact the insurance company to file a claim. The earlier the insurance company knows about the accident, the earlier it can get to work to resolve it.

•Do not admit fault. Only discuss the accident with the police and the claims representative.

•Exchange information with the other driver(s). Remember to get contact information for any witnesses.

This story provided by North America Precis Syndicate Inc.