“Ice and Snow, Take it Slow” - MDOT Pioneer State Mutual Insurance Company

The Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) motto during the winter is “Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.” In addition to this important advice regarding adding extra drive time to your daily commute, here are some other tips to help keep you and your passengers safe during the cold weather months:

First, MDOT reminds drivers to accelerate and brake slowly. Ice and snow can cause cars to slide across the roads. It is also important to merge and change lanes cautiously, continuously checking for oncoming vehicles.

Next, look out for slush. An article on the MDOT website states, “look at the slush being thrown by passing vehicles. If slush is thrown to the side of the wheels and splashing, the salt is still working. If the slush begins to stiffen and is thrown directly behind the wheels, the salt is losing effectiveness and icy conditions may begin to develop.”

Drivers must keep a very safe distance from snow plows. The department of transportation reports these trucks can pick up rocks and debris. So, for your safety it is important to keep your car out of the way in case these objects are thrown.

Finally, even when the roads look clear, they can potentially be very dangerous. “Black Ice” is an icy patch on the road that is either invisible or appears to be a puddle. However, once vehicles hit this very slick spot, it can send the car spinning across roads and highways. In this Michigan State Police (MSP) YouTube Video, expert road authorities offer a step-by-step tutorial on how to react if you do hit a patch of ice and begin to lose control of your car.

The MSP reports icy roads account for over half of the season’s deadly accidents. So, please remember to drive slowly and cautiously this winter.