GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Kent County Road Commission (KCRC) crews continue to scrape off snow and apply de-icing materials throughout the road network. Drivers are advised to closely monitor conditions that can change rapidly within minutes and take the following precautions
- Slow down.
- Allow extra time to reach destination.
- Leave additional space between vehicles.
- Avoid in-car distractions.
- Give plow trucks plenty of room and do not pass them on the right (wing may be in use)
- Don’t crowd the plow, maintain a safe distance: Snowplows are large and operators cannot see directly behind the truck.
- Slow down when you see a snow plow: Snow plows travel at a slower speed; the most common crashes are motorists hitting the rear end of the plow. Stay alert and watch for a plow’s green and amber lights.
- Do not pass plow on right: Plows push snow to the right shoulder, and many are equipped with a wing plow – a 6-8 foot extension on the right-hand side of the plow. This wing is difficult to see and can do harm to a passing car.
- Do not pass in a snow cloud: Be sure the road ahead is clear of vehicles or snowdrifts before attempting to pass on the left. A snow cloud could be caused by crosswinds or by a snowplow, so be patient.
- Remember: Plows do more than plow: Plow trucks also spread salt and deicing agents may spray your car. Maintain a safe distance between your car and the snowplow and be extremely cautious when passing on the left. Remember - do NOT pass a snow plow on the right.
- Check the condition of the tires or consider snow/winter tires.
- Replace the wiper blades, if needed.
- Fill up on antifreeze and window-washer fluid.
- Ensure the battery has sufficient charge.
- Try to keep the gas tank full.
KCRC also encourages having certain items ready for an emergency:
- A flashlight
- Jumper cables
- Tow rope
- Shovel
- First aid kit
- Bag of sand or cat litter for traction
- Cell phone charger
- Battery-operated radio
- Water
- Non-perishable food, snacks
- Reflective triangles
- A blanket and warm clothes (boots, coat, gloves)
There is a checklist from KCRC for those interested.
