DEARBORN, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Winter driving has been relatively easy so far in Michigan this season, but there is still plenty of winter to go.
AAA Michigan is reminding motorists about some winter driving tips to help you stay more safe on the roads during bad weather. According to data from the Michigan State Police, about two out of three traffic crashes in 2020 occurred during inclement weather on snowy, slushy or icy pavement. With this in mind, Michigan motorists are reminded to revisit the safe winter driving playbook and to also to make sure your car is stocked with emergency supplies should you get stranded or stuck.
AAA Top Ten Tips for Winter Driving
- Before starting out, remove ice and snow from the entire car, mirrors and lights so you have clear driving visibility.
- Don’t use cruise control in precipitation and freezing temperatures.
- Remember that four-wheel drive helps you to get going quicker, but it won’t help you stop any faster.
- Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s braking system. Drivers with anti-lock brakes should apply firm, constant pressure while those without may need to pump the pedal in order to avoid loss of traction while stopping.
- Always drive at a speed that matches the prevailing visibility, traffic and road conditions – even if that means driving below the posted speed limit.
- Compensate for reduced traction by increasing your following distances (normally three to four seconds) to eight to ten seconds.
- Allow sufficient room for maintenance vehicles and plows, stay at least 200 feet back and, if you need to pass, go to the other vehicle’s left.
- Watch for icy surfaces on bridges and intersections, even if the rest of the road seems to be in good condition.
- If you get stuck in snow or ice, straighten the wheel and accelerate slowly. Add sand or cat litter under the drive wheels to help avoid spinning the tires.
- If your tires lose traction, continue to look and steer in the direction you want to go. If the drive wheels start to spin or slide while going up a hill, ease off the accelerator slightly and then gently resume speed.
AAA Tips for Vehicle Emergency Kit and Preparation
- Carry a charged cell phone
- Top off your gas tank
- Check washer fluid and anti-freeze, to ensure they are at adequate levels.
- Tires should be inspected to ensure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth.
- Equip your vehicle with a snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables, flares, a flashlight and some warm clothing and blankets.
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