Driving Faster in Snowy Weather Won’t Make You a Better Driver in Michigan

Here we are again, Michigan—icy roads, snow-covered highways, and, apparently, a collective amnesia about how to drive like sensible human beings.

Every winter, without fail, drivers treat the roads like they’re part of some high-stakes winter Olympics event. But here’s the hard truth: driving faster on icy roads doesn’t make you a better winter driver. It makes you a hazard.

BELOW: Did you know Michigan has hilarious snow plow names? ⬇️

According to the Michigan State Police, the most important rule of winter driving is simple: slow down. Speeding on icy or snow-packed roads drastically increases your chances of losing control. Yet every winter, we see people flying down I-96 like they’re auditioning for the next “Fast & Furious” movie. Pro tip: Vin Diesel doesn’t drive a salt truck.

The MSP also points out that it takes 4 to 10 times longer to stop on icy roads. So, no, Karen in the SUV barreling down the left lane at 70 mph, you’re not a better driver just because you have all-wheel drive. In fact, studies show that overconfidence is a common issue for people with SUVs, which might explain why you’re the first one in the ditch.

Meanwhile, the real MVPs of Michigan roads are the cautious drivers, the ones who understand that slowing down isn’t just smart—it’s life-saving. These are the people who leave extra space between cars, gently tap their brakes, and take turns at a reasonable speed. They’re not timid; they’re prepared. And guess what? They’re also far less likely to cause accidents.

So the next time you’re tempted to “prove” your winter driving prowess by speeding, remember this: it’s not a contest. Slowing down isn’t just safe; it’s smart. And honestly, if we all took a cue from those cautious drivers, maybe we wouldn’t have so many cars crashing out on 131 every time it flurries.

Michigan, it’s time to stop trying to be road warriors and start using a little common sense. Drive slow on ice and snow—it’s not a suggestion; it’s survival.