Safe Driving Winter Driving Tips

According Michigan Law tires are legally worn out when the tread on cars and trucks weighing less than 10,000 lbs have worn down to 2/32″. To help warn drivers that their tires have
reached that point, tires sold in North America are required to have indicators molded into their tread design called “wear bars” which run across their tread pattern from their outside shoulder
to inside shoulder. Wear bars are designed to visually connect the elements of the tire’s tread pattern and warn drivers when their tires no longer meet minimum tread depth requirements.

Upside down coin as tread gauge: If tread comes to Lincoln’s head on penny you have 2/32”, if tread
comes to Washington’s head on Quarter you have 4/32”.

Wet and Winter driving is the most difficult driving season. Wet surfaces, snow and ice make even the most routine drive dangerous. Before winter weather arrives, make sure your vehicle is in good condition, keep in mind how you and your vehicle may be affected by the elements and be prepared for emergency situations.

Vehicle Checks
*Check coolant level *Condition and power output of batteries *Brakes for wear or damage
*Tires for wear and proper inflation *Heater, defroster and fans for proper operation *Inspect windshield for
cracks, they will expand when glass is heated from inside *Inspect Windshield Washer Fluid Level and ensure spray
nozzles are clear *Replace worn windshield wiper blades (Blades should not smear water)

On the Road
*Clear all ice, snow and dirt off of windows mirrors and lights *Clear snow from all vehicle surfaces-snow
sliding off roof can block windshield *Know condition of road surface, touch brakes to measure effectiveness
*Reduce speed over bridges as suspended surfaces often freeze before roads *Increase normal following distance
of 4 seconds an additional second or two allowing more time to stop on wet, icy roads *Anti-lock braking systems
(ABS) are only effective when full pressure is applied *If your vehicle in not equipped with ABS, pump your breaks
when stopping to retain steering control *Use head lights any time there are adverse weather conditions *Do not
solely use parking/running lights while driving in adverse conditions

Pedestrians
*Pedestrian’s vision may be compromised by bulky winter clothing or weather *Snow on cars and
plowed piles obstruct drivers view of pedestrians *Slippery roads present hazards for both drivers and pedestrians
Emergency Preparedness *Warm clothing hat, gloves, coat and boots should be worn or kept in car *Flashlight
with new batteries *First aid kit *Small shovel *Cell phone