Experts urge travel safety amidst winter storm

Photo Courtesy: MSP West Michigan

(MICHIGAN) Several Michigan counties on the western side of the state are under Winter Storm Warnings or Winter Weather Advisories through Thursday as more than a foot of snow is expected by the end of the week. 

The National Weather Service and auto experts are urging caution for anyone using the roads during this bout of winter weather.

AAA Spokesperson Adrienne Woodland says if you have to drive it's important to have the right supplies in your car in case you end up stuck or stranded. 

Woodland says drivers should have a snow shovel, an ice scraper, jumper cables, blankets, warm clothing, and water, and snacks in case they get stuck during a winter storm. 

"It's important to be prepared because you never know what can happen out there," says Woodland. 

It's not just what's in your car that's important; there are important things for drivers to be mindful of during their time on snowy roadways. 

One thing for drivers to be mindful of: how close they are to the car in front of them. 

"Compensate for reduced traction by increasing following distance," says Woodland. 

Michigan law requires drivers to clean off their entire vehicle before heading out on the roadways and that includes headlights and brake lights. 

"If you don't clean off your brake lights other vehicles can't see when you're stopping," says Woodland. 

Woodland also says drivers should make sure their tires have enough tread and it's important to use caution at intersections and on bridges that could be icy.