Road in northern Iowa already icing over; here's some ice-driving tips

The Iowa State Patrol is reporting that some roadways in north central and northeast Iowa are now completely covered with ice. This includes portions of Interstate 35 near the Minnesota border, as well as U.S. 18, U.S. 218, and U.S. 63. Icing of roadways in other parts of Iowa can be expected throughout this winter storm.

Driving on ice has an entirely different set of rules. The task can be particularly challenging for novice drivers, drivers with diminishing skills and experienced drivers who have become accustomed to normal winter driving conditions.

“Even the most experienced professional drivers can encounter trouble on icy roads,” said Dena Gray-Fisher, spokesperson for the Iowa Department of Transportation. “Where safety is concerned, never take unnecessary risks.”

If you absolutely must drive on icy roads, these safety tips can help you adapt to the conditions and save lives.

• 1. Wear your seat belt---all persons, all seating positions and at all times.
• 2. Beware of the most ice-prone areas. Bridges, overpasses, ramps, and intersections are common trouble spots.
• 3. Decrease your vehicle speed.
• 4. Kick your defensive driving skills into high gear. Give your full attention to the driving task. Don't talk on a cell phone or text while driving.
• 5. Avoid cruise control.
• 6. Allow for greater stopping distance. Keep at least three times more space between your vehicle and the one ahead than under normal driving circumstances.
• 7. Make sure you can see and be seen. Keep your windshield clear of ice and turn on your vehicle's lights.
• 8. Allow extra travel time. Better late than never.
• 9. Technology offers no miracles. All-wheel drive, front-wheel drive and electronic stability control can offer a false sense of security. Don't let these technologies lull you into overestimating available traction.
• 10. Travel cautiously. Brake, change speeds, switch lanes, and turn slowly.

Handling skids

It is possible to steer out of a skid. Once you feel your vehicle begin to skid:

• 1.    Remove your foot from the accelerator.
• 2.    Do not attempt to brake.
• 3.    Put your vehicle into neutral.
• 4.    Don't try to immediately steer the vehicle.
• 5.    As your vehicle's tires grab the road, slowly turn the steering wheel in the direction you want your front wheels to go.

To plan ahead, call 511 or visit

www.511ia.org (the low bandwidth version of the site is recommended during peak usage periods) for the latest road conditions.