Maintaining complete control over your vehicle is one of the most important aspects of staying safe on Michigan’s roads. That’s because you can anticipate and avoid potentially dangerous situations when you’re able to brake and steer quickly and reliably.

However, inclement weather like rain and snow can reduce the traction of your tires on the road and the effectiveness of your brakes. Both are common in Michigan, especially during the winter, but which is more dangerous to you and other drivers?

In this blog, we explore the similarities and differences between the two, provide safety tips for driving in both types of weather, and attempt to determine which might be more dangerous to Michigan drivers.

Similarities Between Rain and Snow’s Impact on Driving

Rain and snow both significantly impact the way tires grip the road. In rain, water creates a slippery surface that can lead to hydroplaning, where your tires lose contact with the road entirely. Similarly, snow and ice reduce friction, making it harder for tires to grip the road and increasing the risk of skidding.

Both conditions make braking less effective, meaning it takes longer to stop your vehicle, which is especially dangerous in emergencies. Reduced visibility is another shared danger, whether from heavy rainfall or snow blowing across your windshield.

Is Rain or Snow More Dangerous for Drivers?

While both rain and snow are hazardous, the level of danger often depends on factors like temperature, experience, and preparation. Rain is more common throughout the year, which means drivers may underestimate its dangers. Wet roads can be particularly slippery when rain mixes with oil or dirt on the surface.

On the other hand, snow introduces challenges like black ice, where roads appear clear but are actually covered in a thin, almost invisible layer of ice. Snow also tends to accumulate, which can hide lane markings and road signs and create uneven driving surfaces, making navigation more difficult.

In Michigan, where winter snowstorms can be severe, the dangers of snow often outweigh rain, especially for drivers unaccustomed to handling icy or snowy conditions. However, heavy rain during warmer months still poses a serious risk, particularly in areas prone to flooding.

Tips for Driving Safely in Rain and Snow

Whether you’re driving in rain or snow, taking precautions can make a big difference in your safety:

  • Slow down. Driving at reduced speeds helps maintain better control and allows more time to react to unexpected situations.
  • Increase your following distance. Wet or icy roads mean longer stopping distances, so keep more space between your vehicle and the one ahead.
  • Use headlights. Proper lighting improves visibility and ensures other drivers can see you. Avoid using high beams in heavy rain or snow, as they can reflect off water or snowflakes and reduce visibility.
  • Check your tires. Ensure your tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated for maximum traction.
  • Avoid sudden maneuvers. Steer, accelerate, and brake gently to reduce the risk of skidding.
  • Know when to stay home. If conditions are especially severe, consider delaying your trip until the roads are cleared and the weather improves.

What Should You Do if You Lose Control of Your Vehicle?

The biggest risk of driving in rain and snow is losing control of your vehicle. When your tires partially or completely lose traction on the road, you can no longer steer or navigate your vehicle’s path properly, which can significantly increase your risk of a crash. Knowing what to do when you lose control is essential because it’s always a possibility when driving in rain or snow.

If your car starts to skid or slide, resist the urge to panic or overreact. Instead, take the following steps to regain control:

  • Remove your foot from the accelerator. Letting off the gas helps your vehicle slow down naturally without making the skid worse. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can cause further loss of control.
  • Steer gently in the direction you want to go. If your car is sliding, turn the steering wheel in the same direction the rear of the vehicle is going. This technique, known as “steering into the skid,” helps realign your tires with the road.
  • Keep your hands steady. Avoid jerking the steering wheel or making sudden movements, as these can worsen the skid or cause the vehicle to spin out.
  • If braking is necessary, do so carefully. Apply steady, firm pressure to the brakes for vehicles with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) when driving on slick or snow-covered roads. If your car doesn’t have ABS, pump the brakes lightly to prevent locking up your wheels.
  • Look where you want to go. Focus your attention on the direction you want your vehicle to travel rather than on obstacles or hazards to help guide your steering decisions.
  • Shift to neutral if necessary. In extreme cases, shifting to neutral can disconnect the engine’s power from the wheels and help you regain traction more quickly.

Staying calm and following these steps can increase your chances of regaining control and safely bringing your vehicle to a stop.

Contact Our Michigan Car Accident Lawyers After a Crash

Although rain and snow can increase the risk of car accidents, they don’t make them inevitable. It’s up to drivers to change their driving habits to reduce their risks. When they don’t and cause crashes, they can and should be held liable for negligent driving.

If you or someone you love was injured in a crash in Michigan, whether it was during inclement weather or a perfect sunny day, Fieger Law wants to help. Contact our Michigan auto accident attorneys anytime for a free consultation and to learn how we can protect your rights to maximum compensation.