ARLINGTON, Texas — Road conditions are expected to be a nightmare for the next several days as a significant weather system moves into North Texas.
Forecasts show that up to .50" of ice could accumulate in the northeastern parts of the Metroplex.
Cpl. Deric Sheriff is a driving instructor for Arlington police and used to be a truck driver. So he knows what to do if you find yourself on a slick road and your car starts to skid.
Here are some tips he had:
1. Don't slam on the brakes.
”First thing, let off the accelerator, and then if you start skidding, skid in the direction of the skid,” he advised.
Whatever you don’t slam on your brakes and spin your steering wheel.
”You’ll end up spinning out of control and doing donuts and could roll your vehicle.”
2. Keep your distance.
Don’t drive too close to other vehicles.
”The normal distance in spacing is two car lengths, two seconds. Double that to four car lengths,” Sheriff said.
If you cause an accident because you are driving recklessly you could get a ticket, "for driving too fast in unsafe conditions.”
3. Be prepared.
If you do have a wreck, it could take time for you to get help.
”If you get in an accident, the first responders and EMS and tow trucks are going to be super busy, and we may not be able to get to you for an hour or so," Sheriff said.
So Cpl. Sheriff recommended packing, water, snacks, a blanket, flares and shovel in case you need to dig your way out. Also make sure you have a full tank of gas.
Police say if you can, just stay off the roads and avoid the whole mess.
Click here for a list of 17 things to keep in your car's emergency kit.