The winter driving season provides a whole new set of hazards to Michigan drivers. Those of us who make are morning or evening commutes to work through heavy traffic areas such as Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing, or Dewitt have a sense of how heavy traffic mixed with snow/ice can be a major pain.
During these stressful driving times it is important to remember these winter
driving tips:
- Keep windows, lights, hood, and roof clear of the snow and ice.
- Turn on your lights to increase visibility to other motorists. By doing so,
you will help see and be seen by other motorists.
- Slow your speed down. The posted speed limit is meant for ideal driving
conditions, driving in the winter typically means that the roads are not in
ideal conditions.
- Brake early and gently to avoid skidding. Do not pump your anti-lock brakes in the event of a skid, the proper technique is to stomp and steer.
- Do not use cruise control or overdrive in winter conditions.
- Beware of the snow ridges that occur from snowplows. Making an abrupt lane change can result in losing control of your vehicle.
- Do not pass on the right side of the road. If you do need to pass make sure you leave plenty of clearance for vehicles behind you who may need to brake suddenly.
- Pay extra attention to traffic and avoid heavy traffic patterns if possible.
- Don’t drive at all in adverse conditions if it is possible to avoid doing so.
Driving in Michigan during the winter can be a unpredictable. To make sure you are up the challenge make sure you are prepared.
Stay safe!!!
