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Winter Driving Tips

Winter driving can be hazardous and scary. Additional preparations can help make a trip safer, or help deal with an emergency on the roadway.

Equip Your Vehicle With:

A flashlight with extra batteries
A first-aid kit 
Blankets and/or sleeping bags
Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear
A small sack of sand to use for traction under your wheels
A small shovel
Booster cables
Small tools - pliers, wrench, screwdriver
A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
Nonperishable foods and Bottled water

During the Trip

If possible, postpone your travel until roads have been plowed, treated, and cleared. You don't want to slide off the road.
Slow down and adjust your speed to the conditions.
Give snowplows plenty of room, and don't pass them.
Always wear your seat belt.
Remember that driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.
Watch for other vehicles having problems with road conditions.
Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean; keep your lights on.
Don't pass other vehicles on or near bridges.
Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
If you don't feel comfortable driving, pull off of the highway and park at the first safe place.
Slide off the road? Stay in your car. You are safer in your vehicle than standing on the side of the roadway. Call 911 or flag down a passing motorist by flashing your lights or waiving out your window.

Go to http://www.michtip.state.mi.us/rw/home.htm to check current road conditions.