Ready for Maine’s Winter Roads? It’s Time to Drive Smarter

Here we go, Mainers, we’re about to embark on our annual escapade of driving in inclement weather. The white-stuff season is back, and it's about to get wild.

Snow is about to start falling, the roads will get slicker, and drivers will definitely start losing their minds.

Winter Driving Season is Back. It's Time to Be Ready

It never ceases to amaze me how the collective brain of Maine’s driving community seems to completely forget how to drive in bad weather. It’s like we’ve all been living on the island of Maui and have never experienced the white stuff before.

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According to the state of Maine, there were a combined 6,273 accidents in January and February of this year. Sadly, many of those were fatal. While it’s understandable that inclement-weather months see an increase in accidents, it’s still an incredibly staggering number.

Accidents will happen—I understand that. However, many of them can be avoided, especially when we live in a climate where the majority of us should be experts at handling bad weather by now. Half the year is a disaster area in this state, so why do we become complete beginners in the early months of winter? Something needs to change.

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What are Some Tips to Staying Safe on the Roads This Winter?

So, here are a few tips to help keep you as safe as possible during those early days of wintry weather.

SLOW DOWN – Hey, I’d be a hypocrite if I said I didn’t like to speed. I’m no fighter pilot, but the need for speed is a bit of human nature for some. However, using your brain is extremely important. When the weather turns, simply slow down. Test the road conditions and make sure you're in a position to stop safely if needed. Wherever you're going will still be there.
LEAVE EARLIER – This goes hand in hand with slowing down. If inclement weather is in the forecast, simply leave earlier. This will allow you to be much safer on the roads while still getting to your destination on time.
PAY ATTENTION – I know this is just common sense, but it bears repeating. Black ice, a wintry mix, and snow following sleet are just some of the hazards to be aware of. It can be difficult to discern road conditions, so keep your focus locked in to ensure a safe drive.
DON’T OVERREACT – You can prepare as much as possible, but there will always be some risk. If your vehicle starts to slide, try to stay calm. The last thing you want to do is overcorrect. We’ll all experience some slips and slides; it’s important to stay as calm as possible.
BE COOL TO PLOWS – Seriously, let these guys and gals do their job. Move your cars, don’t tailgate, and be courteous. These folks are superheroes in the winter, and we all need to be more respectful of that.
JUST STAY HOME – I understand not everyone can afford to stay home. However, if you can, just do it. There's no reason to put yourself in harm's way unless you truly have to.

It’s important, as a collective, to try to follow these steps and others. Driving is dangerous enough without the added challenges of bad weather and poor driving habits. It’s not rocket science, Mainers, it’s simple safety. Let’s make this holiday season safer than ever. Let’s stay aware of the roads, folks, and let’s all get home…safely.