Can You Correct A Spinout On Ice?

In the wake of the storm this week, we’re dealing with a lot more ice and snow and slick road conditions than we might be used to. You, or someone you know, or someone you encountered in your travels, might have had a problem or two with sliding around on the road in your car. Always drive prepared: check out our tips for correcting a slide or skid on the road in this weather so that you won’t end up on the side of the road, or worse, with your wrecked car on the back of a tow truck!

1. Don’t hit the brakes! Braking will make your slide worse. This is because when you brake, your wheels become locked into place. Correcting a slide means that your wheels need to be able to move freely. So, get your foot off the brake (and also off the gas)!

2. Turn into the slide. Feel the way the back of your car is going and turn your wheel slightly in that direction. For example, if your rear end is sliding to the left, turn your wheel to the left. Don’t do it too forcefully because this can make you start to spin out of control.

3. DON’T PANIC! Panicking leads to things like overcorrecting, which will make you spin out even more. Take a deep breath and remember that you’re in control. Take your feet off of the pedals, be gentle with the steering wheel, and remember to breathe!