Driving Tips for the Winter in Michigan State

In the winter, driving in Michigan can lead to deadly accidents as well as frustrating and uncomfortable unforeseen events if proper safety precautions are not taken. You can become stranded due to snow or car failure or experience vehicle collision. Here are some winter driving tips that can be followed in Michigan to make the winter months more safe and endurable.

Winter Driving Tip #1

Avoid tail-gating. Always drive at least one car width behind a vehicle. This will give you enough room to stop safely without colliding in the event that the driver in front of you stops suddenly. This prevents rear end collisions and can be especially beneficial in Michigan winter weather when the roads are slippery due to snow or ice. You will leave yourself ample space just in case you meet conditions that are out of your control.

Winter Driving Tip #2

Remain calm if your vehicle begins to skid. The worst thing you can do when your vehicle is skidding is panic. Remain calm, shift your car on neutral, and steer your vehicle in the direction you would like it to go, without stepping on the brake or gas. Doing so will help your vehicle to make more controlled movements therefore preventing an accident.

Winter Driving Tip #3

Remove ice and snow from the entire vehicle. In winter weather snow and/or ice can accumulate on your vehicle and cause safety hazards while driving. That is why it is best to remove snow and ice from car mirrors, lights, and windows. This will make your car more viewable to others and vice versa. In addition, any snow that may accumulate on top of your car should also be removed to prevent it from flying into and blocking the vision of other vehicles around you.

Winter Driving Tip #4

Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. Winter weather can cause you to experience unexpected issues with your automobile, so it is important to avoid them by making certain your car is well maintained. You can start by changing the type of oil used in your automobile. In winter weather, a thinner oil type such as 5W-30 rather than 10W-30, depending on what you usually use in your vehicle, would be most appropriate. Also, check to make sure that your vehicle contains enough coolant to prevent overheating and decay of the engine. In addition, since the life of a battery can be significantly reduced in the winter season it is important that its voltage be checked. Lastly, check your tires for wear and tear, especially if they are more than three years old. A worn out tire will not provide the necessary traction and braking in Michigan's inclement winter weather so do not forget to have them checked.

Winter Driving Tip #5

Prepare a Kit for Emergencies. Many drivers neglect to prepare an emergency kit thinking that this action is unnecessary. Always put safety first and take precautions just in case an unforeseen problem such as a stalled car occurs. Some things to put into your safety kit are bandages and other safety supplies, items to keep you warm such as blankets, coats, gloves, boots and any type of clothing that will keep you warm. Do not forget to pack items such as water, candy bars, trail mix, and other healthy snacks. Another must have when driving in Michigan's winter weather is to carry items such as candles, matches, and flashlights. You will be grateful that you followed this tip and have these items with you, even more so when you are caught stranded in Michigan's winter weather.

Although Michigan winters can be harsh and unsafe you can eliminate the unfortunate events that may occur and make your experience more safe and endurable by following these winter driving tips.

Sources:
http://www2.godanriver.com/gdr/news/local/danville_news/article/for_all_types_of_vehicles_driving_in_snow_ice_tough/17715/

http://www.michigan.gov/documents/Nov05_144130_7.pdf