Special Driving Situations and Vehicle Safety
Weather and visibility
Rain, fog, and snow cut both traction and sight distance, so slow down and increase following distance. Use low beams in fog, rain, and snow - high beams reflect off precipitation and make things worse. Turn on headlights whenever you use your wipers, at night (from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise), and whenever you cannot clearly see people or vehicles 500 feet away. Hydroplaning happens when tires ride up on a film of water: ease off the accelerator, keep the wheel straight, and avoid hard braking.
Skids, breakdowns, and emergencies
If you skid, look and steer where you want the car to go and ease off the accelerator; do not slam the brakes. If a tire blows, grip the wheel, keep the car straight, and slow gradually. If you break down, pull as far off the roadway as you can, turn on the hazards, and stay belted in the car with the doors locked while you call for help.
Freeway and special situations
Enter at or near highway speed using the acceleration lane, and never stop on an entrance ramp unless traffic forces it. Cross railroad tracks without stopping unless a signal, gate, or approaching train requires it. In work zones, obey the posted reduced limit and watch for workers. Give snowplows room and do not pass on the right.
Vehicle safety
Michigan requires seat belts for front-seat occupants and for all passengers under 16, and children under 4 must be in a child safety seat; children 4 through 7 and shorter than 4'9" need a booster seat. Check tires, lights, brakes, wipers, and washer fluid regularly.
Rule of thumb: when conditions change, change your speed and your space first - every other safe decision follows from that.