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Significant Snowfall Slows Many Motorists, AAA Michigan Reports

23 January 1998

Significant Snowfall Slows Many Motorists, AAA Michigan Reports

    DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 23 -- Wet, sloppy snow is slowing
motorists statewide and causing an increase in emergency road service (ERS)
calls, according to AAA Michigan.  And with icy conditions forecast, extra
caution is advised as motorists venture out.
    As of 9 a.m. today (Jan. 23), the Auto Club reported 647 ERS calls
handled, well above normal levels, with a 24-hour period normally averaging
1,500-2,000 calls.
    To help motorists avoid unnecessary delays, AAA Michigan offers the
following winter driving tips:

    * Improve visibility by clearing snow and ice from the entire car.
    * Drive with headlights on low-beam for better road illumination.
    * Posted speed limits are set for ideal road and weather conditions.  When
conditions are less than ideal, slow down.
    * Avoid sudden starts, stops and turns.  Accelerate carefully so car
wheels don't spin.
    * Don't brake hard.  The best technique for braking on ice or snow is
"threshold" or "squeeze" braking.  This is done by applying the brakes firmly
to a point just short of lock-up, and then easing off the brake pedal
slightly.  Applying steady pressure is better than pumping the brakes.  If
your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, continuous, firm pressure is recommended.
Pumping will deactivate ABS.
    * In a skid, ease off the accelerator and don't lock up the brakes.
Carefully steer in the direction you want to go and straighten the wheel as
soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction.
    * Anticipate potential danger such as ice on bridges, snow-covered lane
markings, stalled cars and poor visibility.  Adjust speed, increase stopping
distance between other cars and change lanes to avoid trouble.

SOURCE  AAA Michigan