This guide will teach you how to regain control when your car skids on ice. Get winter-ready today by scheduling a professional service with Ed Hicks Nissan.
Winter driving may not be an everyday concern in South Texas, but sudden cold snaps and heavy storms can create icy conditions that catch any driver off guard. Knowing what to do if your car skids on ice is essential, especially for Nissan owners who want to stay safe when temperatures drop.
This guide walks you through practical techniques to stay in control during a skid and offers expert tips to prepare your vehicle for winter driving. We’ll also share how Ed Hicks Nissan assists drivers when they schedule professional service to keep their vehicles ready for severe weather and unexpected road conditions.
Noticing your car begin to skid on ice is a frightening experience when you’re unsure how to react.
While different drivetrains can have varied effects on your vehicle’s movement, the core techniques for correcting a skid remain largely consistent. Following these four steps can help you correct sliding and guide your vehicle back on course.
Feeling scared when your vehicle loses traction is completely normal, but letting panic take over can make the situation far more dangerous. It’s crucial to stay composed and move through the following steps with steady, intentional actions to help protect yourself and others on the road.
It’s a common misconception that the best way to stop your car from skidding on ice is to immediately slam on the brakes to stop all movement. You want to take your foot off the brake or accelerator to allow your wheels to move freely and avoid sliding even more off the road or into another object.
To regain control of your vehicle, steer in the direction it is coasting. So if your car is veering to the left, you must turn your wheel to the left. Once it begins to straighten out, straighten out your steering wheel accordingly. Use light pressure on the brakes or accelerator to better control your vehicle’s movement if necessary.
As you attempt to course-correct your vehicle back into your lane, avoid overdoing it and spinning the car out even more. Guide the wheel with steady, controlled motions that correspond to the skid, rather than reacting with sharp or frantic movements. Exercise caution as you continue driving to your destination in case you encounter multiple icy patches.
Icy roads are uncommon in Corpus Christi winters, but these driving tips can be useful for navigating snowy or icy roads found in colder parts of the country.
Excessive speed is a key risk factor that contributes to drivers skidding on ice. Driving below the speed limit allows you to adapt to adverse road conditions and prevent losing control of your vehicle.
Another adjustment you’ll need to make on icy roads is leaving a significant distance between yourself and other vehicles. This allows drivers to have enough reaction time to maneuver around.
Making sudden movements on icy roads is a recipe for disaster. Take extra caution when making turns and stops, or when you need to react to an out-of-control vehicle.
Keep a close eye on the road ahead of you to spot hazards such as black ice and snow drifts. Staying alert gives you more time to slow down, change lanes, or adjust your steering before you reach a dangerous patch.
The next time you plan on embarking on a winter driving adventure, taking care of your vehicle beforehand can make all the difference in how your vehicle handles icy roads. Here is how to prevent your car from sliding on ice through preventive maintenance and smart driving habits.
Clear your windshield of snow and ice and ensure your windshield wipers are fully functional before every winter drive.
Routine tire and brake care plays a major role in keeping your vehicle stable when winter roads get slick. Strong tire grip and smooth, responsive braking can reduce your chances of sliding or losing control when winter conditions turn hazardous. Stay ready for winter weather by scheduling tire and brake maintenance at Ed Hicks Nissan, where our team can help keep your car in good condition all season long.
Just in case of an emergency or accident, it’s wise to keep a few emergency supplies in your vehicle to keep you safe in cold weather. To start, consider storing water bottles, a blanket, a flashlight, an ice scraper, and a compact shovel if you find yourself stuck in snowy weather.
Swapping your current tires for winter tires designed to maintain traction on icy roads can be a worthwhile investment for people who frequently drive in cold climates. At Ed Hicks Nissan, we carry genuine Nissan parts and accessories, including tires, at great deals along with our professional tire service.
Knowing how to respond when your car skids on ice is an essential skill for any driver, especially during sudden cold snaps. By staying proactive and practicing good habits, you’ll be better equipped to handle winter conditions safely.
Visit Ed Hicks Nissan in Corpus Christi for a full tire and brake inspection before the worst of winter driving conditions set in. Our service experts will ensure your Nissan is ready to handle slick roads confidently. Schedule your service today.
