Se-Anne Rall|Published 6 minutes agoWith snowfall predicted in parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, motorists have been advised to be cautious on the roads or avoid being out and about in the snow and icy conditions.Tips for driving snow or icy weather conditions:Check that your tyres are properly inflated.Ensure your anti-freeze is adequately topped up.Gently test your brakes to judge how slippery the road is.Do not use cruise control when driving on slippery surfaces.Accelerate and decelerate slowly to maintain traction and avoid skidding.Drive slowly and give yourself more time: it takes more time to accelerate, decelerate and stop in slippery conditions.Increase your following distance to 10 to 12 seconds.Anticipate stops where possible and rather start moving slowly, as there is less resistance compared to being completely stationary.Accelerating up a hill can cause skidding. Rather gain speed before the hill and slow down when you reach the top.Avoid stopping halfway up the hill.Switch your headlights to dim. Do not use fog lights, as it makes it difficult for oncoming drivers to see.It goes without saying, but do not use sport mode and switch to snow mode if your vehicle has that option.If you start to spin, stop accelerating and let the car slow naturally. Do not brake, as it will extend the skid. If you start spinning, steer in the direction of the spin until it is safe to straighten. Do not slam on your brakes.Avoid driving habits which are dangerous in normal conditions: distracted, fatigued and drunken driving.Black iceMany areas may experience sleet rather than full snowfall. This can create an even more precarious situation on the roads, in the form of black ice.This is a thin layer of transparent ice on the road which forms when sleet or rain freezes as it hits the ground. It is very difficult to see and you will be at its mercy once you hit it.Always be alert for black ice: it looks like glossy, slightly wet patches on the road.Do not hit the brakes, and remain focused on keeping the steering straight.Lift your foot off the accelerator.Be careful to not over-steer.seanne.rall@iol.co.zaIOLRelated Topics: