December 9, 2008 -- As weather conditions change rapidly across southwest Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is sharing some tips from snow plow drivers to help motorists know when roadways are icing over.
"We teach our crews to look at the slush being thrown by passing vehicles. If slush is thrown to the side of the wheels and splashing, the salt is still working," said Dave Budd, MDOT Southwest Region Maintenance Superintendent. "If the slush begins to stiffen and is thrown directly behind the wheels, the salt is losing effectiveness and icy conditions may begin to develop."
Many variables come into play when determining when a salt-treated roadway will ice over; humidity, wind speed and direction, the amount and type of precipitation, and the amount of salt that has been put down on the road all have an effect. Winter maintenance crews say when the temperature drops below 20 degrees, salt takes longer to work and roads refreeze more quickly.
"Once temperatures get down into the teens, the effectiveness of the salt on a busy roadway is really minimized," Budd added.
Drivers are reminded that driving speeds should be based on road condition and visibility. Posted speed limits are maximum speed guidelines for when driving conditions are optimal.
When changing or merging lanes, proceed with caution. Merge slowly. Sudden movements may cause vehicles to skid. Keep plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, and always wear your seat belt.
For more winter safety driving tips, visit the winter driving page of the Roads and Travel section of the MDOT Web site at www.michigan.gov/mdot.
MDOT says: Remember - in Ice and Snow, Take it Slow!
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