Common Myths About Driving on Ice: What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever driven during an Alaskan winter, you know that icy roads are no joke. Here at Vulcan Towing & Recovery in Anchorage, we’ve seen it all – cars skidding into ditches, trucks sliding through intersections, and more than a few drivers confidently believing myths about winter driving. While we’re always here to help when you need a tow or recovery, we’d much rather see you reach your destination safely. That’s why we’re debunking some of the most common myths about driving on ice.
Knowing the facts could mean the difference between a smooth ride and a call for roadside assistance. Let’s set the record straight and share some tips for staying safe when Alaska’s roads turn into ice rinks.
Myth #1: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Means You Can’t Skid
One of the most persistent myths about driving on ice is that vehicles with all-wheel drive are immune to skidding. While AWD can help improve traction when accelerating, it doesn’t make your vehicle stop or turn better on ice. The truth is, all vehicles – no matter how many wheels are powered – are at the mercy of icy conditions.
Why This Myth Persists:
AWD gives drivers confidence because it helps distribute power to all four wheels, reducing the likelihood of spinning out during acceleration. However, it doesn’t affect braking or cornering on slippery roads.
The Reality:
Stopping and steering on ice depend on your tires and how you handle your vehicle, not on AWD. Even with the best technology, ice drastically reduces the friction between your tires and the road.
Safe Driving Tip:
Invest in high-quality winter tires, which provide better grip than all-season tires. Drive cautiously, and remember that AWD is not a substitute for careful winter driving habits.
Myth #2: Pumping Your Brakes Helps You Stop Faster
Pumping your brakes was sound advice before anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were standard. However, modern vehicles equipped with ABS automatically do the “pumping” for you, and manually pumping the brakes can reduce your stopping power.
Why This Myth Persists:
Drivers who learned to drive on older vehicles were often taught to pump the brakes to prevent skidding. This habit has stuck around, even though most cars today have ABS.
The Reality:
If your vehicle has ABS, the system applies the brakes in rapid pulses to prevent wheel lock-up. You’ll feel the brake pedal vibrate or pulse when ABS is engaged – that’s the system doing its job. Pumping the brakes interferes with this process and can increase the stopping distance.
Safe Driving Tip:
If your vehicle has ABS, press and hold the brake pedal firmly when stopping on ice. Let the system work, and focus on steering to maintain control.
Myth #3: You Don’t Need Winter Tires If You Drive Carefully
Many drivers believe careful driving is enough to compensate for the lack of winter tires. While cautious driving is always important, it’s not enough to overcome the challenges of icy roads without proper equipment.
Why This Myth Persists:
Winter tires can be an added expense, and some assume all-season tires are good enough for winter driving.
The Reality:
Winter tires are designed with softer rubber compounds and deeper treads, giving them superior grip on ice and snow. On the other hand, all-season tires harden in cold temperatures, reducing their effectiveness. Even the most cautious driver can lose control if their tires aren’t equipped to handle icy conditions.
Safe Driving Tip:
Swap out your all-season tires for winter tires before the snow and ice arrive. If you live in particularly icy areas, studded winter tires can provide even better traction.
Myth #4: You Can Always Spot Black Ice
Black ice is one of the most dangerous hazards on winter roads, and many drivers believe they can spot it if they’re paying close enough attention. Unfortunately, black ice is nearly invisible, making it incredibly deceptive.
Why This Myth Persists:
The term “black ice” implies that it’s visible as a shiny or dark patch on the road.
The Reality:
Black ice forms when moisture freezes on the road’s surface, creating a thin, transparent layer of ice. It often blends in with the asphalt, making it almost impossible to see. Black ice commonly forms on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, especially early in the morning or late at night when temperatures are lowest.
Safe Driving Tip:
Assume black ice is present whenever conditions are below freezing, especially if the road looks wet. Reduce your speed, avoid sudden movements, and increase your following distance.
Myth #5: You Should Accelerate Slowly to Avoid Skidding
While it’s true that sudden acceleration can cause your wheels to spin, accelerating too slowly can also cause problems, especially when starting on an incline.
Why This Myth Persists:
Drivers are often taught to be gentle with the gas pedal in slippery conditions, leading some to believe that extremely slow acceleration is always the safest option.
The Reality:
On ice, you need the right amount of power to move your tires without spinning. Accelerating too slowly can reduce traction and cause your tires to lose grip.
Safe Driving Tip:
Applying steady, moderate pressure to the gas pedal when starting on ice. If your wheels spin, ease off the gas and try again. If you’re on a hill, use your vehicle’s low gear or engage the traction control system if available.
Bonus Tip: Stay Calm and Call for Help When Needed
No matter how prepared you are, icy conditions can sometimes get the better of even the most experienced drivers. If you find yourself stuck, stranded, or involved in an accident, remember that help is just a phone call away.
At Vulcan Towing & Recovery, we’re proud to serve Anchorage and the surrounding areas with fast, reliable towing and recovery services. Whether you’ve skidded into a snowbank or your car won’t start on a frigid morning, our team is here to help.
Final Thoughts
Driving on ice is challenging, but knowing the facts can help you stay safe on Alaska’s winter roads. By debunking these common myths, we hope to encourage smarter, safer driving habits to keep you and your loved ones out of harm’s way. And if you do find yourself in a slippery situation, remember that Vulcan Towing is just a phone call away.
Safe travels, Anchorage!