HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Ottawa County’s road commission compiled the following tips for winter-driving safety, noting icy road crashes cause 3.6 times more deaths than all other winter hazards, nationwide.
- Don’t try passing working snow plow trucks. Never attempt to pass a snow plow on the right. Plow blade ends are often not visible because of the snow cloud that forms during removal.
- Do not crowd the plow. Plow drivers have limited visibility and may not see your vehicle if it’s too close to the back of their trucks. Snow plow trucks may back up at intersections.
- Clear all your car’s windows of ice and snow. Make sure washer fluid reservoir is full, tires have proper air pressure and tread, and you’ve got an emergency equipment kit — from jumper cables to extra clothing and/or blankets, food and water, in the event you’re stuck. A complete list is online at https://www.ready.gov/car.
- Michigan law requires motorists to drive at a “careful and prudent speed” in all conditions. Reduce speeds and increase following distances. Posted speeds are for ideal road conditions.
- Accelerate and brake slowly and avoid over-steering.
- Beware of ice patches, including ice-glazing that may be invisible to drivers. Bridges and overpasses freeze first.
- If your vehicle becomes disabled, use flashers and mark the vehicle so it’s clearly visible to other drivers.
- Avoid distractions such as talking on your cell or texting.
- Buckle up, and make sure all passengers are properly buckled, with children are in size-appropriate child-restraints.
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