5 Ways To Avoid Traffic Backups Because of Accidents This Winter
Winter weather can cause accidents and major backups on the highways- use these 5 tips to find the trouble and steer clear.
Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the National Weather Service, Michigan State Police and Google all have valuable tools you can use to be alerted of highway accidents and traffic tie-ups before you are trapped this Winter.
- 1
Check the Cameras
MDOT has 7 cameras placed on 131 and I-94 around the Kalamazoo area plus the Bermuda Triangle at Galesburg- why is it always Galesburg? Click on any camera and get a live view of traffic flow and conditions.
- 2
Get road conditions and Winter weather advisories from Michigan State Police
Michigan State Police keep you informed of Winter weather advisories and rate road conditions as clear, wet, icy, snow-covered or slushy. They also warn of icy overpasses, reduced lanes and blowing snow causing limited visibility.
- 3
Check in with the National Weather Service
This one is easy, right? The National Weather Service is the authority and can warn of impending weather that may impede travel. They also have life-saving tips on what to do if you are caught in a Winter storm in your vehicle.
- 4
Get the App
MDOT's Mi Drive app is free from iTunes and Google Play. It offers real-time road and traffic information, including incidents, lane closures, work zones, message boards, camera views, and weather-related road conditions on I, M and US routes across Michigan.
- 5
Use Google Maps
Google Maps is available on nearly every smartphone. Not only will it find you the shortest route from Point A to Point B, it will also show you traffic information- if you see red you may want to consider another route. You can also choose the "avoid highways" option when chatring your course.
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