Already Time for Defensive Driving

Rachel Packer

So it's still 85 degrees in Denver and we've got plenty of sunny days ahead before we're hit by full-blown winter. But as I'm sure you've noticed, with sudden night-time snow showers, this time of year can be the most dangerous for unexpectedly tricky driving conditions.Nothing causes grey hairs like a casual morning drive in the October sunshine wrapped up with unwittingly spinning a couple of donuts once you hit a patch of black ice.Things to know about fall driving:

• If there's snow on the ground, or even on the peaks, chances are there is black ice on shaded parts of the road. Slow down in advance before entering these sections.

• If you begin sliding or fishtailing on ice, DON'T hit the brakes. Turn the steering wheel in the direction in which you're sliding and downshift if you're driving a standard.

• To slow down on black ice, downshift and very lightly feather the brakes.

• Always look at where you want to be, not the direction in which you're sliding.

• Four-wheel-drive doesn't mean you won't slide. SUVs are some of the heaviest cars on the road and therefore are even more difficult to control once they slide.

• Allow plenty of space between your car and the one in front of you.

• Check your tires. If they're bald, get new ones immediately. The Colorado Department of Transportation recommends tires with at least 1/8-inch tread. Make sure the compound is not too hard. Softer tires have better traction.