I've noticed two types of winter weather people in the South: Those who snuggle up at home and those who think they can conquer the ice. I've heard rednecks brag about their monster trucks, only to end up wrapped around a tree. I've listened to people whine about their work as if the world depends on their presence in the office. (It doesn't.) And, I've heard people from areas of the world where ice and snow aren't novelties say they stay home when it snows because they fear the headstrong among us who will brave treacherous roads despite having no experience driving on them.
So, Southerners, here's what you need to know about ice: It's not mud. You can't crush it with your giant tires and barrel through. You have to slow down ... waaaay down ... and don't expect your brakes to perform miracles, 'cause they won't. Also, you must leave lots of space between your vehicle and every other object near you. And, it doesn't matter how big or heavy or bad ass your truck is, if you hit a patch of ice you, too, can lose control in a blink.
Rhiannon "Rhi" Bowman is an independent journalist who contributes snarky commentary on Creative Loafing's CLog blog four days a week in addition to writing for several other local media organizations. To learn more, click the links or follow Rhi on Twitter.