Frigid Air Blows Up ERS Call Volumes, AAA Michigan Reports
22 December 1998
Frigid Air Blows Up ERS Call Volumes, AAA Michigan ReportsDEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 22 -- Cold air and slippery conditions across the state have caused an increase in emergency road service (ERS) calls, according to AAA Michigan. And with temperatures expected to dip in the teens tonight, extra caution is advised as motorists venture out. Common problems reported are weak batteries and frozen doors. As of 9 a.m. today (Dec. 22), the Auto Club reported 700 ERS calls handled, well above normal levels for this time period (3-400), with a 24-hour period normally averaging 1,500-2,000 calls. To help motorists avoid unnecessary delays, AAA Michigan offers the following winter driving tips: * Improve visibility by clearing snow and ice from the entire car. * Drive with headlights on low-beam for better road illumination. * Posted speed limits are set for ideal road and weather conditions. * When conditions are less than ideal, slow down. * Avoid sudden starts, stops and turns. Accelerate carefully so car wheels don't spin. * Don't brake hard. The best technique for braking on ice or snow is "threshold" or "squeeze" braking. This is done by applying the brakes firmly to a point just short of lock-up, and then easing off the brake pedal slightly. Applying steady pressure is better than pumping the brakes. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, continuous, firm pressure is recommended. Pumping will deactivate ABS. * In a skid, ease off the accelerator and don't lock up the brakes. Carefully steer in the direction you want to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction. * Anticipate potential danger such as ice on bridges, snow-covered lane markings, stalled cars and poor visibility. Adjust speed, increase stopping distance between other cars and change lanes to avoid trouble.