How to Drive a Toyota Prius on Ice
Driving on icy roads can be hazardous. Even experienced drivers can lose control of their vehicle if they are not prepared. Driving a Toyota Prius on potentially icy roads requires the same safe driving techniques that are required for driving other vehicles. Driving in winter conditions can be dangerous to a driver who is inexperienced or unprepared.
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Instructions
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Familiarize yourself with potentially icy areas, such as bridges, ramps, and overpasses. Reduce your speed and use extra caution when approaching these areas.
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Check the pressure in your tires often. Tire pressure can decrease in low temperature, and driving on improperly inflated tires can increase the distance needed to stop.
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Drive your car as slowly as possible. Allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you. Increase the distance from two car lengths to three car lengths. Allow yourself plenty of time to recognize potential hazards. Be especially careful when driving through curves and taking corners.
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Press the brake pedal smoothly and steadily when stopping. Allow yourself more room to stop your vehicle than usual. If you need to slow your vehicle quickly, use your engine to decrease speed by dropping the transmission into a lower gear.
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Lift your foot off o the accelerator immediately if your car begins to skid. Do not attempt to apply the brakes during a skid. Wait until you feel the tires begin to regain traction, then slowly turn the wheels in the direction you want the car to go.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear your seat belt.
Leave for appointments early and give yourself plenty of time to drive slowly, and still reach your destination on time.
Avoid using cruise control on icy roads. If your tires loose traction, the cruise control could cause your car to accelerate suddenly.
References
- Photo Credit icy street image by Judith Morrison from Fotolia.com
