If you have recently moved to an area with icy mountain roads or if you will be traveling to the wilderness for pleasure during the winter, it is very important that you know how to drive safely on roads covered in snow and ice. High-elevation roads are often covered in black ice that is nearly impossible to see as you drive. To this end, here are some tips to help you safely drive on icy mountain roads when it is necessary that you do so:

Understand What Four-Wheel Drive Really Means

When you drive in snow and ice, it is important for you to understand what your vehicle being 4-wheel drive actually means. While you may believe it gives you better traction and control while driving, this simply isn't the case. The 4-wheel drive in your vehicle simply gives you better traction when you are first starting to move your car from a stop. Once you are driving down the road, then your 4-wheel drive vehicle will perform just like one that is 2-wheel drive.

Carry Chains in Your Vehicle

When you are driving in areas that have snow and ice, it is often the law that you carry tire chains in your vehicle. Having tire chains in your trunk and knowing how to use them is very important. If you do not know how to install your car's chains, then practice at home when the weather is nice. If you end up needing to chain on a snowy highway, you will be very glad that you took the time to learn how to properly install them.

Slow Down

The worst thing you can do on an icy mountain road is to drive too fast. When you notice that the roadway isn't dry and clear, you should always slow down. Once you have slowed down to a comfortable speed, then you should slow down a few more miles per hour because it is human nature to overestimate the ability to deal with a dangerous situation.

Don't Rely on Cell Phones and GPS Units

Finally, when you are traveling during a storm or in a remote area, your cell phone and GPS unit may not work properly. For this reason, you should never rely on them to save you in an emergency or lead you through a remote area. Instead of relying on technology, let someone know where you will be driving and when to expect you to arrive and carry an old school map with you in case you get lost. If you get stuck in the snow, always stay with your vehicle and wait for rescue.

For more tips or if you get stuck in the snow, contact a professional like Darryll's Towing for assistance.