4 Tips to Avoid a Winter Car Accident in Iowa
As Iowans, we are no stranger to winter storms and have already experienced some with snow, ice and freezing rain. While we all know that winter weather can have an immediate impact on road conditions, it also increases your chances of getting in an accident. It’s important to keep in mind these 4 helpful tips when driving in Cedar Rapids.
1) SLOW DOWN
AWD and 4WD do not mean that you are immune to the winter weather!
These tools may give you more traction, but they will not help you if you need to come to a stop quickly. One of the biggest misconceptions about driving in general is that you need to always go the speed limit. The speed limit is the max speed for ideal conditions, so although the “speed limit” may be 55mph, it’s totally fine to go whatever you feel comfortable with.
2) MAINTAIN A SAFE DISTANCE
When road conditions are slick, you must be more cautious of the vehicles in front of you. If they brake quickly, you will need to react hastily and if you are following too close, you may be too late.
3) MAINTAIN CONTROL
Slipping and sliding on an icy road can be a common occurrence and it’s important to know how to react when it happens.
- Stay calm
- Don’t slam on the brakes
- Reduce your speed
- Turn into the slide – By turning your wheel in the direction of the slide, you are able to re-center your vehicle, therefore regaining control
4) BE PREPARED
Even if you follow everything the right way, there is still a chance you get into an accident or end up in a ditch. It’s also important to have a winter survival kit (blankets, food, water, flashlight, etc.) at the ready in case you have to wait for a tow truck to arrive.
AFTER AN ACCIDENT, FIND A CERTIFIED COLLISION REPAIR SHOP NEAR YOU
Whether you were in an accident or just happened to notice a new scratch on your car, a professional technician at a local collision repair shop like Golden Hammer Collision Center will be able to get your vehicle’s scratches fixed quickly and correctly the first time. Get a free quote from us - we'll even provide a shuttle and tow your vehicle anywhere in Cedar Rapids if necessary. Find out why we're The Shop with the Golden Touch!