When the Georgia Department of Transportation Says to Stay Off the Roads

According to the AJC, a 20-year-old Georgia State University Student was killed driving on icy roads south of Atlanta. 

This tragedy should impress all of us to stay off the roads when warned by the Georgia DOT.  Many people assume that because they have a four-wheel drive vehicle that they can drive in ice and snow.  This over-confidence is the problem. 

Ice and Snow:

Four-wheel drive provides insufficient traction on ice and provides no additional help when braking.  All vehicles sold today come with All-Season tires.  Only snow tires or tires with chains have sufficient traction to drive and stop in icy conditions.

If You Must Drive:

It was reported in the AJC, that the Georgia State University student was driving more than 80 miles per hour.  When the driver struck ice, he lost control of the vehicle.  

Speeding, even in ordinary conditions, can increase the chance of an accident.  Speeding when the roads are icy is extremely dangerous.  If you must drive, do not exceed 20 miles per hour on surface roads and 35 miles per hour on the highways.  If there is poor visibility, drive even slower.  

Even if you are an experienced winter driver, remember other drivers are not.  I have often told others that “I am not afraid of snow; I am afraid of others who are afraid of snow.”

The point is that you must be aware of other drivers who are not heading the advice to drive carefully.  The best advice is to stay in, bake a frozen pizza, and watch a movie.