AAA Michigan Offers Important Winter Driving Advice

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 30, 2007 -- With the season's first significant winter storm expected in Michigan this weekend, AAA Michigan reminds motorists of some important winter driving and survival tips.

  Winter Driving Tips

  -- Clear snow and ice from vehicle to improve visibility.  Include hood,
     roof, trunk, turn signals, tail lights and headlights.

  -- Slow down when visibility and road conditions are impaired, and
     increase the following distance between vehicles.

  -- Anticipate dangers including ice on bridges, hidden lane markings,
     stalled cars and poor visibility.

  -- Use proper winter braking techniques.  For cars without anti-lock
     brakes, use "squeeze" or "threshold" braking by applying the brakes
     just short of lock-up, then easing off the brake pedal slightly.  For
     vehicles with anti-lock brakes, continuous, firm braking is necessary.

  -- Avoid skids by easing off the accelerator and not locking up the
     brakes.  In a skid, carefully steer in the direction you want your
     vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go
     in the desired direction.

During the winter months, it's important for everyone to monitor the weather forecasts that may affect their driving plans. If you become stranded in the winter, AAA advises that it is usually best to stay with your vehicle rather than risk exposure or becoming lost while seeking help. In these cases, a winter survival kit could save your life. AAA recommends all motorists carry the following items in their vehicles during the winter months.

  Survival Gear
  -- Cell phone
  -- Ice scraper & brush
  -- Boots, gloves, hat, blanket
  -- Tools & flashlight
  -- Tire traction material such as sand or cat litter
  -- Shovel
  -- Jumper cables
  -- Flares or reflective triangle
  -- Food
  -- Coffee can furnace
  -- First aid kit

More safe winter driving information is available through your local AAA Michigan office or online at AAA.com.

  ONLINE RESOURCES

  Winter Car Care brochure:
  www.AAA.com/aaa/047/PDF/CarCare.pdf

  Winter Car Care ad slick (safety tips):
  www.AAA.com/aaa/047/PDF/WinterTips.pdf