Winter Driving

In this episode, Mike Dell digs into “how to drive in the snow” — timely for Northern Michigan (and anywhere else where winter hits) and packed with practical advice from his experience.

Key Topics Covered:

The importance of reducing speed when roads get snowy — Mike’s rule of thumb: about 10 mph less than the posted speed limit when snow first covers the roads.

• Planning extra time for trips: leaving earlier, anticipating traffic delays and slower conditions.

• Tire considerations:

  • Ensuring you have good tires — if you’re riding on bald all-seasons or summer tires, winter traction will suffer.

  • The value of genuine snow tires (Mike’s wife uses Nokian Hakkapeliitta).

  • Using your 4-wheel drive / all-wheel drive appropriately: yes, it can help with takeoff, but it does not help you stop any faster.

• Practicing skid control: find an empty parking lot and experiment with sliding, skids, recovery — to build feel and confidence before you have to use it on a public road.

• Clearing your vehicle of snow & ice before driving: windows, side & back, even the roof can matter (if snow slides forward, covers your windshield).

• Vehicle maintenance tips for winter: topping off washer fluid, checking tires, inflation, fluid levels, making sure everything is in good shape before the real winter hits.

• The overarching message: slow down, leave earlier, prepare your vehicle, drive mindfully — all so you avoid bending your car, hurting someone, or getting stuck in a snowbank.

Quote Highlights:

“Don’t ever be in a hurry while driving on snow.”

“Just please, please realize … four-wheel drive does not make you stop any quicker.”

“If you’re not used to driving in snow, go find an empty parking lot … figure out when the car goes out of control and how to get it back.”

Why this matters:

For those of us flying, working, commuting or traveling in winter-weather regions (like Northern Michigan), conditions can change rapidly. The same mindset of preparation and respect for environment that applies in aviation carries over to road driving: equipment (tires, maintenance), environment (snow/ice, slower speeds), and mindset (leave earlier, anticipate, stay calm). This episode is a great reminder to apply that disciplined approach to driving when the snow starts.

What’s Next:

Mike mentions he’ll be talking about ham radio stuff in the next episode — so stay tuned.

Who’s this for:

• Drivers in winter-weather climates looking for refresher tips.

• Anyone who owns a 4WD/AWD vehicle and doesn’t fully understand its limitations in snow.

• People who might have to drive in snow but don’t feel confident — this could help build awareness and reduce risk.

• Listeners who appreciate aviation-style pre-flight (pre-drive?) checklists and disciplined preparation.

Call to Action:

• Before the next snow, check your vehicle: tires, fluids, wipers/washer fluid, defroster, windows.

• Practice a skid-recovery session in a safe, empty area.

• When roads get snowy—slow down, leave earlier, and remember your stopping distance grows.

• Share this episode with someone you know who may not be comfortable driving in snow.