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DETROIT – As an arctic blast hits Metro Detroit, there is a chance of snow showers Wednesday evening.
Winter-like conditions are not uncommon in southeastern Michigan, although it has been a while since the region faced the possibility of whiteout conditions.
“It doesn’t help that we don’t get our winters like we used to. So when it happens, everyone says, ‘Oh no,’” said Celia Salazar, a driver.
Drivers like Gayle Watson said they have some essentials, like ice scrapers and extra clothing, ready to take in their trunks.
However, she is not worried about the bad weather.
“I have no intention of getting out if that happens,” Watson said.
Michigan State Police reported that there were more than 200 accidents during Thanksgiving trips, which somewhat suggests that Michiganders may be a little rusty.
“It’s going to sound crazy, but with the lack of snow… so usually drivers here in Michigan get 8 – 10 inches – they automatically slow down. They are increasing their driving distance and being very careful,” said First Lt. Michael A. Shaw, a public information officer. “If you get an inch or two, they go crazy.”
When you’re dealing with heavy snow, high winds and poor visibility along the way, Esther Ross from Motor City Driving Academy got behind the wheel to show Local 4 what to do under the READ rule.
Right speed for now. Eyes up, brains on. Anticipate the next move. Donut of space.
Donut of space refers to protecting each side of your car, she said.
The message ahead of this round of bad weather: don’t panic, plan.
“The thing you want to be careful about is not making quick inputs, and that’s what we often do when people, our first reaction when we start to slide is to kind of panic and hit the brakes,” said First Lt. Shaw said.
When you brake, he says it locks your wheels, causing you to lose friction and causing the vehicle to slide further than if you hadn’t pressed the brake.
Some drivers say weather plays a role, but also worry about others on the road.
“I know how to handle these circumstances,” Salazar said. “The problem is that most people don’t and they insist on going over 10-15 (mph).”
When it snows, people tend to drive erratically, Deandre Benson said.
“(Don’t drive) like an idiot. Be vigilant, you have to drive for other people too,” he said.
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