Minnesota is famous for cold and snowy winter weather. And although the snow is beautiful, it makes for dangerous driving conditions. In addition to snow, Minnesota drivers often deal with wet roads, fog, ice and other dangers. Weather-related car accidents cause more deaths in the United States per year than hurricanes, tornadoes and floods.
When the weather is clear, accidents are less likely. But conditions such as rain, sleet or snow make the roads dangerous. Reduced visibility is a significant threat in bad weather conditions.
Reduced visibility
Visibility is necessary for safe driving. Being unable to see the road is a recipe for a car accident. Weather conditions that change rapidly can ruin your visibility. For example, a sudden downpour of rain can make it almost impossible to see the road. Some rains are so heavy that windshield wipers are useless.
Thick fog is another weather condition that can arise suddenly and ruin your visibility. Thick fog makes it impossible to see even a few feet in front of your vehicle. And then there’s the heavy snow that Minnesota drivers often face. Winter pileups are common on roads and highways.
The dangers of ice
Ice is often an invisible threat. When temperatures are subfreezing, even a tiny amount of water can quickly create an icy roadway. Light rain or even barely a drizzle can result in icy highways, bridges and roads. It’s a significant threat for drivers who can’t see the ice and have no idea they should slow down.
Driving in bad weather
Driving in bad weather is difficult but not impossible. The roads are much safer when drivers take the weather into account and drive accordingly.