As always, the best advice during or after a snow storm is to avoid driving until the roads are clear. However, if that isn’t possible, AAA offers a few safety tips for area drivers. 
“Slick roads pose a danger to all types of vehicles - including those with four wheel drive,” says Jim Lardear, director of public and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “AAA reminds drivers to slow down and increase their following distance because vehicles can easily lose their traction on wet and icy roads.”
Winter Driving Do’s
Prepare your vehicle for cold weather. Check battery, ignition system, lights, brakes, tires, the exhaust system and windshield wipers.
Slow down. When the roads are icy allow extra time to reach your destination. Rushing creates risks.
Pack an emergency kit. Ice scraper, shovels, kitty litter, towels, blankets, coats, mittens, a cell phone, water and extra food in case road conditions strand you in your vehicle.
Use major routes. After it snows major roads are cleared and treated first. Avoid secondary roads.
Dress as if you were going to be stranded. It can get very cold in a car on the side of the road waiting for help. Be sure to have extra blankets and to insist that children who may be traveling with you do the same.
Use low gear to get out of a tough spot. You need steady pulling and moderate power when traction is poor. The best remedy when wheels are stuck is to put the car in low gear and apply power slowly. Keep the wheels pointed straight ahead so the vehicle can move in a straight line. If you can’t go forward, try backing out, steering in the vehicle’s tracks.
Winter Driving Don’ts
Avoid slamming on brakes. Minimize brake use on very slippery, icy roads and hills; if further speed reduction is needed use a gentle and slow brake application.
Avoid changing lanes. On a four-lane highway, stay in the lane that has been cleared most recently. Changing lanes over built-up snow between lanes may cause you to loose control of the vehicle.
Never use cruise control. When driving on any slippery wet, icy surface cruise control prevents you from having total control over your vehicle.
Prevent from braking with an ABS. An anti-lock brake system allows the wheels to lock momentarily. Do not pump the pedal or remove your foot from the brake when you feel the brake pedal vibrate and pulse against your foot.
Do not drive in four-wheel-drive. It will get you going faster and easier but it does not provide an advantage in stopping.
Do not panic. If your vehicle skids out of control steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. To regain control of your vehicle, stay calm.
