Winter Driving in Maine: Let’s Stop the Madness on the Roads

We’ve made it, Mainers. It’s officially winter driving season.

It’s easy to tell. The snow has started to fall, the roads are getting slicker, and drivers are starting to lose their minds.

It never ceases to amaze me how the collective brain of Maine’s driving community seems to completely forget how to drive in inclement weather. It’s like we have all be living in Sub-Saharan Africa and never experienced the white stuff before.

According to the state of Maine, there were a combined 5,712 accidents in January and December of this year. That’s nearly 20% of all accidents for the entire year so far. Sadly, many of those were fatal. While it’s understandable that inclement weather months will see an increase in accidents, it’s still an incredibly staggering number.

Accidents will happen, and 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 by now at handling bad weather. 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.

So, here are a few tips to help keep you as safe as possible during those early days of wintery 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 understand this is just simple 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 over-correct. 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. 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.