SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-snow-ice-driving

On snow or ice, how should you brake?

Early, carefully and gently.

  1. Early, carefully and gently ✔
  2. Hard and fast at the last moment
  3. Only with the parking brake

Why: Hard braking can lock the wheels and cause a skid. Brake early in slow, steady strokes, let the wheels keep turning, and leave extra room.

Huh, didn't know that: Bridges, ramps and overpasses freeze before the rest of the road.

The dad joke
Why did the snowman refuse to drive? He was afraid of melting under pressure!
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References

Answer: Early, carefully and gently. Hard braking can lock the wheels and cause a skid. Brake early in slow, steady strokes, let the wheels keep turning, and leave extra room.

  1. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 10: Special Driving Conditions dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-10-special-driving-conditions
    To prevent skids on snow and ice, brake early, carefully and gently.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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