Part of what makes Michigan beautiful is our diverse four seasons. But unfortunately, if you’re not prepared for winter Michigan driving – both physically and mentally – road conditions can become quite dangerous. In this guide, we’ll go over some of the most important winter driving safety tips for getting to your destination and back without harm.
Winter Driving – Safety Tips for Michigan Roads
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is ready for winter conditions. Here are some important maintenance tasks that you should check on before the winter winds blow.
- Check Wiper Blades and Fluids: Ensure your wiper blades are functioning correctly and replace them if necessary. In addition, don’t forget to refill your windshield wiper fluid with a winter formula to prevent freezing.
- Inspect Tires: Make sure your tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated. Consider using winter tires for better traction.
- Battery Health: Cold weather can affect battery performance. Before winter hits – or as soon as you can – it’s a good idea to have your battery checked. Testing your car battery is one of the best preventable ways to avoid ending up stranded on the side of a winter Michigan road.
- Fill your gas tank. Keeping your gas tank at least 1/2 full during the winter months can not only help to avoid fuel line freeze-up, but will also allow you to be prepared in case you end up on the side of the road and need to stay warm.
2. Clear Your Vehicle
Before you head out for the day, always clear snow and ice from all parts of your vehicle before driving. Use a snow scraper to remove ice from the roof, hood, lights, mirrors, and windows. This will help to ensure maximum visibility for you. In addition, it will prevent snow from blowing onto other vehicles near you and obscuring the vision of nearby drivers.
3. Drive Cautiously
In snowy and icy climates, you need to drive a bit differently than in the summer months! Keep these tips in mind when driving on snowy or potentially icy roads.
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed significantly in snowy or icy conditions. Remember that bridges and overpasses freeze first. Approach these areas with caution.
- Increase Following Distance: Maintain a greater distance between you and the vehicle ahead. Keep in mind that it takes about 10x longer to stop on icy roads.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Steer gently and avoid abrupt acceleration or braking to maintain good control of your vehicle.
4. Stay Aware of Road Conditions
Road conditions can change quickly. Be aware of winter hazards!
- Watch for Black Ice: This can form unexpectedly, especially in shaded areas or when temperatures hover around freezing.
- Monitor Traffic: Keep an eye on the vehicles around you to anticipate sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. Remember that you won’t be able to stop as quickly on ice – and neither will they!
5. Emergency Preparedness
Cautious and vigilant driving can prevent a lot of accidents and emergencies. Still, it’s always best to be prepared!
- Keep an Emergency Kit: Include items such as blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and a shovel in your vehicle.
- Stay with Your Vehicle: If you become stranded, stay inside your vehicle with the engine running intermittently for heat, ensuring the exhaust pipe is clear of snow.
6. Avoid Distractions
Lastly, stay focused on the road. This is important in every season, but ESPECIALLY in hazardous winter conditions.
- No Texting or Phone Calls: Keep distractions to a minimum by putting your phone in the glove compartment or in another safe place while driving. Turn your ringer off so you’re not distracted. Always wear your seatbelt and ensure passengers do as well.
Stay Safe This Winter!
Driving in Michigan’s winter weather requires preparation, caution, and awareness. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones arrive safely at your destination despite the challenges posed by winter conditions. Remember that even experienced drivers can face unexpected situations. Being prepared is key to navigating Michigan’s icy roads safely.
Not sure your vehicle is ready for the icy winter months? Our service center is here to help make sure your car is as prepared as possible. From tire service to oil changes to brake maintenance, our trustworthy mechanics treat your vehicle like their own. At Tillema Auto, we prioritize honest service and fair prices. Here, our customers are family.
Stop by our service center today, or call us at (616) 878-5991.
