TEXAS, USA — Driving in snow or ice is something most Central Texans don't have to do very often.
However, when severe weather does hit, icy roads create challenging and dangerous driving conditions.
That's why a 6 News viewer asked whether the car feature, lane assist, can help in icy conditions.
THE QUESTION
Should you lane assist in icy road conditions?
OUR SOURCE
THE ANSWER
You should not use your lane assist or rely on any function in icy road conditions.
WHAT WE FOUND
Washko says lane assist is a safety feature that makes driving easier for someone behind the wheel.
"If you start drifting over the left or the right side, it's going to set an alarm," Washko said.
Lane assist can be a great feature at times, but in icy conditions, it won't properly operate.
"If there's any kind of snow, any debris, any kind of ice that's covering the lanes or even the lane's not clearly marked, the paint is older," Washko said. "It's not going to detect that."
Lane assist also activates at speeds too high for the ice.
"It activates at 37 miles an hour, and depending on the severity of the roads and what they look like, at 37 miles an hour, that's going to be too fast with icy conditions," Washko said.
Instead, Washko says it's best to turn the feature off.
"Put 100% of your focus on the driving," Washko said. "Don't rely on any safety features. Just use your eyes and ears and make sure you slow down. The number one safety feature is going to be the driver behind the wheel. When you get complacent and rely on those things, it can get you in a bad spot, especially in the bad weather."
Washko encourages drivers to slow down anytime there's severe weather.
Reduce your speed and stay at a greater distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Always wear your seatbelt. Most importantly, if you can, just stay home and off the roads.
Have something you want verified? Get in touch! Email us at verify@kcentv.com.
More Verifies by Reporter Sydney Dishon: