Experts Share 3 Key Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice

Navigating slippery roads requires focus on one task at a time, say safety experts.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:31pm

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With another winter storm system hitting the Greensboro, North Carolina area, driving experts are reminding residents of three crucial tips for safely navigating snow and ice-covered roads: slow down, increase following distance, and focus on performing only one driving task (accelerating, braking, or turning) at a time.

Why it matters

Driving in wintry conditions can be extremely hazardous, with slippery roads increasing the risk of skids, slides, and loss of control. Following basic safety advice from experts can help drivers avoid accidents and get to their destinations safely.

The details

According to Patrick Olsen of CARFAX, the combination of snow and ice makes roads "much more slippery and much harder to navigate." He advises drivers to avoid trying to "be fancy" by attempting multiple driving tasks at once, as that "will lead to disaster." Instead, Olsen says drivers should focus on doing only one of the three main driving actions - accelerating, braking, or turning - at a time. Consumer Reports' Michael Crossen also recommends staying calm, looking where you want the car to go, and letting the car's anti-lock brakes do their job during a skid or slide.

  • The latest winter storm system hit the Greensboro area on January 29, 2026.

The players

Patrick Olsen

An expert from CARFAX who provides advice on safe winter driving.

Michael Crossen

An expert from Consumer Reports who tests how cars handle in winter weather conditions.

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What they’re saying

“You're going to do three things when you're driving. You're going to accelerate, you're gonna brake, you're gonna turn. Do only one of those things at a time. Don't try to be fancy and spin the wheel while you're gassing up a hill. It will lead to disaster.”

— Patrick Olsen, CARFAX Expert (wfmynews2.com)

“Stay calm, look where you want to go, and steer where you want to go.”

— Michael Crossen, Consumer Reports Expert (wfmynews2.com)

What’s next

As winter weather continues, drivers should check their local forecasts and road conditions before heading out, and be prepared to adjust their driving accordingly.

The takeaway

Driving safely in snow and ice requires focus, patience, and following basic tips from experts to avoid dangerous situations like skids and loss of control. By slowing down, increasing following distance, and concentrating on one driving task at a time, drivers can get to their destinations safely.