Don't let icy roads ruin a trip

Traveling down a smooth Interstate highway in a modern, comfortable vehicle can lull a driver into a false sense of security. Add conversation, music, cell phones, drowsiness or, heaven forbid, alcohol, and very little of the driver's attention may actually be devoted to the most important task at hand.

We don't know that any of the above contributed to the tragic I-80 crash Sunday, but it does appear that ice played a part in the five fatalities.

We chuckle at the "bridges may be icy" signs when they go by in the summertime, but they offer deadly serious advice this time of year. That's especially true during the first major ice storm of the year, as travelers in east central Nebraska encountered Sunday.

Drivers of modern vehicles also may be fooled into thinking their cars will take better care of them than they actually can; antilock brakes may keep a car headed straight, but they may also increase stopping distance. Four-wheel or all-wheel drive may help us make it through the snow, but don't yield to the temptation to drive faster than you should in slippery conditions.

If you're in a front- or all-wheel drive vehicle that begins to skid, you should steer in the direction you want to go and maintain speed until the vehicle is under control. In rear-wheel drive vehicles, gently steer in the direction of the skid and slowly ease up on the accelerator. In any case, don't brake until there is directional control, and then do it gently.

If a wheel does drop off the edge of the pavement, don't attempt to steer back onto the road until you're sure you can maintain directional control. If all else fails, steer to hit softer items such as guard rails, brush or wire fences, rather than solid objects like utility poles, bridge supports and trees.

If you get stuck, stay in the car, unless it is dangerous to do so, and wait for help. Call 911 if you are involved in an accident, or call (800) 525-5555 to report collision, dangerous drivers, road hazards and other highway emergencies to the Nebraska State Patrol.

Of course, it's better not to get into highway trouble in the first place if you can help it. Before your next winter trip, make sure your vehicle is up to snuff, including the battery, alternator, charging system, heater and defroster, lights, wipers, brakes, anti-ski braking systems, cooling systems, belts, hoses and antifreeze.

Don't forget to check your tires for proper pressure, and replace tires if your treads are worn down.

Don't add weight to the trunk of a front-wheel drive vehicle, as that will only make it heavier and harder to stop. A pickup truck, however, might benefit from some weight in the bed, but make sure it is secured in place to avoid shifting.

Stay home if at all possible if the weather is bad. Check weather forecasts -- there's a good link to the National Weather Service on the Gazette Web site, http://mccookgazette.com -- or call 511 on a mobile or stationary phone to access the Nebraska State Patrol's automated road condition system.

If you have to drive, take your time, make sure you have an emergency kit in the car and tell someone when you are leaving and plan to arrive.