Winter has arrived in Michigan and the snow will be a regular part of the forecast for the coming months… Well, not technically, but you know what I mean.
If you’re a new driver on the road this winter, here is some important information to minimize risk while driving in winter conditions:
- Check the Weather
- Dress for Winter Travel
- Make sure that you have an ice scraper and snow brush in your vehicle
- Check Your Tire pressure
- Check Your Battery
- Fill Up Your Tank
- Use a Newer Vehicle if Possible
- Clean the entire vehicle of snow and ice
Remember What You Learned in Driver’s Education. In slippery conditions make smooth gradual maneuvers. You’ll need more following distance and stopping distance to handle the icy roads. The more time and space you give yourself the better off you’ll be. That means leaving more space between you and the car in front of you and slowing down so that you’re able to stop if anything does happen.
You can get a little bit better traction by driving in the tire tracks of the vehicle ahead. The snow is already matted down. Leave plenty of following distance between you and that vehicle though.
Lastly, expect Black Ice. You can’t always see it, but it is out there, a slippery patch. If you do start to skid, don’t slam on the breaks. Ease off the gas and steer in the direction that you want to go. Remember not to use cruise control when you have limited traction.
