Texas drivers are used to sunshine, construction zones, and the occasional wild hailstorm—but
driving on ice? That’s a whole different story. Ice storms in Central Texas can turn I-35 into a
skating rink and neighborhood roads into slip-n-slide courses.
At Safe Beacon Insurance in Round Rock, TX, we’ve helped plenty of folks after an ice-related
fender bender, and we’ve seen how quickly things can go wrong when drivers aren’t prepared.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through smart, practical safety tips for driving on ice in Texas,
whether you’re commuting through Round Rock, heading out to Hutto or Pflugerville, or braving
the back roads of Georgetown. These tips can help you stay safe—and avoid the insurance claim
altogether.
Why Ice Is So Dangerous (Especially in Texas)
Here in Central Texas, we don’t see icy conditions often—which is part of the problem.
Why it’s risky:
• Inexperience: Most Texans aren’t trained to handle icy roads.
• Road design: We don’t have the same salt treatment systems as northern states.
• Sudden temperature drops: Warm weather can turn cold fast, freezing bridges and
roads without warning.
Even a light glaze of ice can lead to major pileups and multi-car accidents.
Before You Drive: Prepare Yourself and Your Vehicle
If ice is in the forecast, your first priority should be avoiding the road altogether. But if you
must drive, prep properly:
1. Check Road Conditions
• Use DriveTexas.org or ATXfloods.com to check for closures or warnings.
• Listen to local weather stations like KXAN or KVUE for updates.
2. Inspect Your Vehicle
• Tire tread: Should be at least 2/32″
• Tire pressure: Cold air can lower PSI—check it!
• Wipers: Make sure blades are clean and functional
• Defrosters: Test both front and rear
3. Keep a Winter Emergency Kit
In case you get stuck, carry:
• Blankets
• Water/snacks
• Phone charger
• Flashlight
• Ice scraper
• Sand or kitty litter for traction
While Driving: Tips for Staying Safe on Icy Roads
1. Slow Down More Than You Think
Driving at normal speed is a no-go. Even 30 mph can be dangerous.
• Reduce speed by at least 50% in icy conditions
• The faster you go, the less traction you have
2. Increase Following Distance
• Use at least a 6-second gap from the car in front
• More room = more reaction time if they spin or slide
3. Don’t Slam the Brakes
Sudden braking causes wheels to lock up, which leads to skids.• Gently pump brakes if you feel yourself losing control
• If you have ABS, apply firm pressure and let the system work
4. Steer into the Slide
If your back tires start sliding:
• Take your foot off the gas
• Turn the wheel gently into the direction of the skid
Don’t overcorrect—stay calm and let the vehicle regain grip.
5. Use Low Gears on Hills
Trying to climb an icy hill? Shift to a lower gear and keep steady pressure on the gas.
• Don’t stop halfway—momentum is your friend
• Avoid following too closely in case someone in front loses traction
6. Avoid Cruise Control
Never use cruise control in icy or snowy conditions. It removes your ability to respond quickly to
a skid or ice patch.
7. Watch for Black Ice
This invisible enemy usually forms on:
• Bridges and overpasses
• Shady spots that don’t get sun
• Low-lying roads and intersections
If it looks wet but isn’t melting—it might be ice.
Local Areas to Watch Out For
Round Rock and nearby cities have some areas that tend to freeze over first:
• Brushy Creek Road (especially underpasses)• I-35 overpasses and flyovers
• University Boulevard and Highway 79
• Rural roads near Georgetown and Taylor
Stay on major routes that are more likely to be sanded or treated by city crews.
When to Stay Home (Even If You Don’t Want To)
We get it—life doesn’t stop when the weather’s bad. But sometimes it should.
Stay off the roads if:
• Ice accumulation exceeds 1/4 inch
• You hear about jackknifed semis or pileups on major roads
• Emergency services ask drivers to stay home
No job, errand, or meeting is worth risking your safety—or someone else’s.
What Happens If You Crash on Ice?
Even careful drivers can find themselves in a spinout or accident during an ice storm.
Here’s what to do:
1. Get to a safe location (off the road if possible)
2. Turn on hazards
3. Call 911 if there are injuries or damage
4. Take photos of the scene, damage, and road conditions
5. Call Safe Beacon Insurance for claim assistance
Depending on your coverage:
• Collision insurance pays for damage to your vehicle
• Comprehensive may cover weather-related damage like falling limbs
• Towing and roadside can help get you out of a ditchHow to Make Sure You’re Properly Covered
Icy roads are unpredictable. Make sure your policy is ready.
Ask Safe Beacon about:
• Collision vs. liability-only coverage
• Roadside assistance limits
• Rental reimbursement if your car needs repairs
• Comprehensive coverage for non-collision damage
We’ll help you figure out what fits your lifestyle, budget, and risk level.
Final Thoughts: Drive Smart and Stay Safe
Driving on ice in Texas might feel like a rare occurrence, but as weather patterns shift, it’s
becoming more common across Central Texas. And that means more risk on the road.
At Safe Beacon Insurance, we want you to feel confident—whether you’re driving to the
grocery store during a freeze or staying parked with peace of mind.
Our team is here to:
• Help you prep your coverage before a storm
• Guide you through a claim if something happens
• Share practical safety tips that protect your family
Ready to Review Your Auto Policy Before the Next Freeze?
Let’s talk coverage—before you hit the icy road.
Call Safe Beacon Insurance in Round Rock, TX today.
Phone: (512) 535-1918
Email: info@safebeaconinsurance.com
Website: https://www.safebeaconinsurance.com
Let’s make winter driving less stressful—and a whole lot safer.