AUSTIN, Texas — With a possible wintry mix headed toward Central Texas, here are a few tips to help drivers prepare slick for road conditions.

Prep your vehicle - Before heading out, make sure your car is capable of handling ice and snow conditions. Carefully inspect the battery, ignition system, lights, brake system, tires, exhaust system, heating and cooling system, windshield wipers, washer and glass.  

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Drive distraction free - Looking away from the road for just a moment can put you at risk for a crash. Keep a clear mind while driving and ask a passenger for help with directions or other activities that could cause distracted driving.

Stay alert - Try to get a decent amount of sleep before driving long distances. Like drug and alcohol consumption, being sleepy can reduce reaction time, decrease awareness and impair judgement.

Avoid tailgating and using cruise control - Using cruise control on a wet road is never a good idea. Following distances between vehicles should increase to eight to 10 seconds instead of the standard three to four seconds.

Know when to brake and when to steer - Drivers should choose to steer over brake when traveling more than 25 mph to avoid a collision in winter-like conditions. Always look 20-30 seconds ahead of your vehicle to ensure you have time and space to stop safely. 

Remember the ABC's of safety: Always Be Careful. Visit AAA Texas for more information on how to drive safely on slick and icy roads.