It’s not even Thanksgiving and Mother Nature has decided to thrust winter at West Michigan. With frozen rooftops and icy roads, everyone needs to start being more careful while driving. Here are some tips to stay safe on the roads during the most wonderful time of the year.

Winterize your vehicle

Take your car to a mechanic to be sure that it is ready for the harsh season. One of the best investments you can make in Michigan is snow tires. They can help your summer ones last longer and give you more traction in the winter. Look for good deals around town.

“It you can afford that luxury, winter tires are great,” deputy Ryan Devries said. “Otherwise just check tread, and pressure on tires.”

Be prepared

It’s smart to have things in your car just in case you are stuck somewhere. If you have a cell phone keep it turned on and easily accessible. But no texting and driving of course, that’s a fast track to either a ticket or an accident

“It is a great way to get a hold of us.” Devries said, “you can always call 911 and we can come out.”

Educate yourself

Ask a parent or qualified mechanic to teach you how to change your tire and jump start your car. You may be alone and need to know how to correctly handle it. Make sure you have all of the necessary tools with you for either situation.

As for the driving part of winter education, learn how to deal with fishtailing and spinning tires. It isn’t a bad idea to practice handling your car in an open, poorly plowed parking lot with your parents, just stay away from the light posts.

Drive according to conditions not speed limit

People often mistake the speed limit with the minimum speed. With ice and slush, it is easier to go off the road. So drive the speed you feel safe at. A higher speed can lead to your tires spinning or sliding when you try to stop.

“The lower your speed,” Devries said. “the less likely you are to end up in a ditch.”

Be courteous

Have a little respect for the other drivers on the road. Just because you feel safe at the speed limit, doesn’t mean that every other driver does, so just be patient. Everybody deals with winter driving in their own way.

To find snow tires or get your car a winter checkup, try these local shops

Z-Tire Center
17278 Robbins Rd
Grand Haven, MI
(616) 846-1600

Tuffy Auto Services Center
435 N Beacon Blvd
Grand Haven, MI
(616) 844-5557

Downtown Auto Services
13782 172nd Ave
Grand Haven, MI 49417
(616) 846-3210