The Niles Star

Sheriff: Drive safe on winter roads

With the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) citing traffic accidents as the leading cause of death during winter storms, the Berrien County  Sheriff’s Office is reminding travelers that despite adverse conditions, many accidents can be avoided. What a lot of people need to understand is that a high percentage of traffic fatalities are a result of poor decision-making,” Sheriff L. Paul Bailey said.

In 2008 more than 11,000 Michigan accidents were alcohol related.  Despite statistics showing that seat belt usage in the U.S. has increased over the years with about four out of every five travelers now buckling up, there is still room for improvement.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that if all drivers and passengers wore seatbelts, approximately 8,000 lives a year would be spared nationwide.

With the arrival of winter weather, Bailey suggests the following safety tips for safe travel:
Winter driving tips:

• Check your tires, engine oil, antifreeze and brakes before embarking on a trip.

• Buckle up, and make sure your passengers do too.

• Reduce speed in snow, sleet and rain.

• Allow yourself plenty of braking space in wet weather.

• Lightly pump your brakes on wet roads when slowing the vehicle.

• Never venture down unplowed roads.

• Avoid distractions such as talking on your cell phone or eating.