(11) CAUTION: Icy roads

The dreaded snowy roads every winter, especially in Utah, are enough to make drivers' palms sweaty and nerves tighten. The slippery roads can create some hazardous conditions that can end horribly bad if we aren't careful. Last night, around 2:30 A.M., my family was driving back home after some time well spent at Grandma's. The snow was coming down pretty hard at this point and visibility was low. We were getting on the Provo Center St. entrance heading north on the freeway when we hit black ice beneath the thin layer of untouched snow. As a result, our car started to spin out of control. Mid-spin, we saw a car ahead of us and it was clear that the driver also lost control as we did. The outcome was far worse for him than it was for us as he slid off the road and was stuck in the rock of the embankment. Luckily, my mom was driving and being an experienced driver knew how to get us in control of the car again. She took the right steps in maneuvering through snow. She did not panic, but calmly pumped the brakes and turned the wheel in the direction the rear end was fishtailing. We were able to pull off safely into the emergency lane to say a quick prayer before we were on our way, this time even more cautiously than we began. I know we were being watched over by Heavenly Father. This was a scary eye opening experience, and I'm grateful that we were kept safe. I am a firm believer in slowing down and taking your time even if that means being late to your destination. It will pay off when the passengers in your car are less likely to be injured or killed. It's also important to remember that just because we may be experienced drivers, that doesn't make us invincible or immune to the consequences. Please be smart on the road this Winter and drive safe!