Winter is in full swing in northern Michigan, which means slippery roads for drivers.
“If we’re predicting an ice storm, freezing rain, something like that, we might send our direct forces out ahead of the storm to salt the roadways,” said James Lake, MDOT North Region Communications Representative. “If it’s something like we had the last couple of days where mostly light and fluffy snow, at least at first we send them out to plow once that’s begun.”
All winter long, it’s all hands on deck for road crews. MDOT works with county road commissions and city public works departments to take care of the slick and snowy roads.
“All of the agencies prioritize. They are looking to clear the highest traffic roads quickly and early because that is the road that most traffic is on. In a lot of cases, neighborhood streets, local streets are going to be later to get cleaned up,” said Lake.
After the storm, it’s all about the fine details: restoring the roads to bare pavement condition by getting the shoulders plowed, pushing snowbanks and salting icy areas.
Since Sunday, Grand Traverse Central Dispatch says they’ve seen about 50 car accidents because of the winter weather.
Before heading out on the roads, they have some tips for you to keep in mind.
“People need to make sure that they’re being patient, have a little more spacing between you and the person in front of you, and give yourself more time to get to your destination,” said Jason Torrey, Grand Traverse County 911 Director.
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