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Change habits and use extra precaution with winter driving

Northeast Michigan had its first round of snow and slippery roads Thursday and although snow plows were out spreading salt and plowing, there still were several cars that slid into ditches and a few minor fender benders.

When winter weather rolls in and roads become treacherous there are several things motorists can do to help remain safe, law enforcement said.

Michigan State Police Trooper James Lively said driving too fast for conditions is the number one reason people lose control of their vehicle and leave the roadway. He said a driver should drive at a rate of speed they are comfortable with, even if it means going slower than the posted speed limit.

“Just because it says 55 doesn’t mean you have to go that fast,” Lively said. “Slow down and give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you because you don’t know when it is going to stop suddenly,”

Making sure your vehicle is properly maintained and working properly before bad weather arrives also is important, Lively said. He said having tires with good tread helps to provide grip on slippery roads and having working lights, blinkers windshield wipers also helps to reduce the chance of an accident.

Unfortunately no matter how safe someone is, often times conditions are so bad people end up in a ditch or off the roadway anyway. Lively said when that happens you should but on your hazard lights and call for assistance. He said a call to the non-emergency 911 line is helpful if you get a ride away from the vehicle and intend to retrieve it later.

“We will find the car and a call letting us know what is going on is very helpful because it saves us from having to do a missing motorist search when the person is actually OK,” Lively said.

Lively said when stuck stay calm, assess the situation and make sure their are no injuries. He said never go near the roadway to flag down another motorist for help. He said it is also best to stay in the vehicle and wait for help, because wandering away from it can lead to health emergencies and makes police locating you more difficult.

“Someone will find you or come looking for you,” Lively said. “Stay in the vehicle and as warm as possible.”

There are several things Lively recommends people should have in their car, when they anticipate having to drive in winter weather. He said a flashlight is helpful, as well as a small shovel if there is room in the vehicle for it. Have cell phones fully charged and try to have a blanket, gloves and boots handy because they helps you stay warm. Lively said having a snack and water available in the vehicle also can help.

“You could be there a while so having things to stay warm and hydrated are important,” Lively said. “Eventually help will arrive.”

Steve Schulwitz can be reached via email at sschulwitz@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5689. Follow Steve on Twitter ss_alpenanews. Read his blog, Upon Further Review … at www.thealpenanews.com.

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