The cold season brings beautiful snowfalls and glistening icicles, but a winter wonderland can test even the most seasoned driver. Learn what to expect and how to react when driving in snow, sleet and rain.

These tips will help you handle the snowy, slick road conditions:

• Wait Until Roads Are Ready: Make sure the snowplows and salt trucks have serviced the roads before you go.
• Know Your Vehicle: Make sure you understand the effect of your vehicle’s engine power, especially on slippery roads. Practice a few maneuvers in an empty parking lot before you hit the open road.
• Slow Down: Speed increases the chances of an accident. Maintain a safe driving speed — well below the posted limit.
• Brake Before Turning: Apply brakes smoothly before turning corners, and accelerate gently once you’re through the turn.
• Avoid Harsh Handling: Abrupt braking, acceleration and steering can lead to skidding — especially when you’re traveling at a high speed.
• Drive Defensively: Be aware of other drivers, and adjust your following distance. Allow at least four car lengths for every 10 mph of speed.
• Think First Before Parking: Don’t park in reserved spaces, especially during snow emergencies. Park at least 20 feet from corners to avoid snowplow damage. Leave your car in gear, and turn the front wheels away from the slope. If you’re parking for an extended period, cover windshield wipers in plastic — it’ll prevent freezing.
• Use Caution on Bridges and Overpasses: They typically stay icy longer than roadways. Infrequently traveled or shady roads have the same problem, so exercise extra caution.

Don't let driving in the rain worry you. These wet-weather tips will help ease your mind:

• Plan Ahead: Ensure your tires and windshield wipers are in good shape. Also, give yourself plenty of extra travel time.
• Turn on Your Headlights: This increases your visibility and allows other drivers to see you more easily.
• Exercise Caution: Drive carefully. Engine oil and grease can build up on roadways and become extremely slick when mixed with rainfall.
• Take It Easy: Brake sooner and more gently on rainy roads. Allow extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.
• Don’t Use Cruise Control: Reaction time is critical, so keep your feet on the pedals.
• Take the Middle Road: The middle lane sheds water most efficiently.
• Watch Out for Standing Water: Avoid large puddles, because they may be deeper than they appear and potholes may lie underneath. If you must cross small puddles, tap your brakes gently — it’ll remove some water from your rotors. Never drive through running water.
• Steer Clear of the Big Guys: Buses, trucks and large vehicles may splash your windshield and reduce your visibility.
• Don’t Hesitate to Pull Over: If your visibility is dangerously reduced, pull over. It’s the safest option.

Remember, it’s always best to stay safe. If your local weather station advises you to stay off the roads, do so.