Driving instructor advises caution as ice grips Southeast Texas

BEAUMONT, Texas — As icy conditions are expected to grip Southeast Texas roads, a driving instructor is urging people to stay home. However, if driving can’t be avoided try to avoid slippery overpasses and bridges.

In the usually hot and humid Southeast Texas climate, it will come as no surprise that many of its residents have never driven in the snow.

“I’ve never driven in the snow all this time living in Texas. Because it’s a surprise for me, it’s hot in this place,” said resident Patricia Roscio Washington.

Now, an upcoming winter storm will be creating an unexpected challenge for drivers in the area.

“My recommendation is everybody you know, don’t drive outside at this time. Stay safe with your family and everything. You don’t got nothing to do outside stay in home and that’s it,” said another Beaumont resident.

Although staying off the road is recommended, many will not be able to stay home when the snow hits.

“Very, very nervous cause I was supposed to work that day, so I’m very nervous,” said resident Sunterrie Walker.

Driving Safety Instructor for Courtesy Wheels Defensive Driving School, Shirley Walker, says if you must drive there are a few steps you can follow to stay safe.

“If you have to get out in it I’m telling you to drive slow. It is not against the law to reduce your speed in bad weather,” said Walker. “Rule of thumb says 25 miles under the posted speed is what’s safe.” 

Walker says when driving on ice, it is important to leave a little extra space between you and the car in front of you to allow those cars to break if necessary.

“If you slam on the breaks on the icy road of course you’re going to skid. There’s no doubt about it,” said Walker.

Instead lightly tap the breaks if the car does hydroplane.

“The first thing that you should do is drive into the direction of the skid. Do not try to correct your car while you’re in a skid. Do not let go of the wheel, maintain the vehicle at all times,” said Walker.

Once full control is regained, turn the steering wheel of the car in the direction you want to go.

Walker says that another potential hazard to be warry of is black ice. This form of ice is notoriously hard to see while driving, which is why it is important to lower your speed and avoid tailgating.