By Amanda Markert

Let’s cut to the chase. I’m a bad driver. There’s no use denying it. The writing’s on my car­ – every bumper and door. I’m not reckless, just easily distracted—mountain scenery, donut shops, and men in the flannel tend to steer me into curbs. And, during the winter, my ability level drastically decreases, making getting to the hills a little tricky.

Once my driving reputation got around the office, I was deemed the perfect candidate for the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat, Colorado. 

And so, I swallowed my pride and headed to the 'Boat to learn how to operate a car in treacherous winter conditions: ice, slush, snow, low visibility, you name it. Not to mention, I was on a personal mission to prove to my friends who refuse to get into my car that I can drive without hitting a curb or backing into a light pole.

After a day of instruction, fishtailing, and coming close to crashing into the instructor’s car only once, I came away with some important tips. Allow me to share.

Photo: Larry Pierce