MICHIGAN, USA — It was a traffic nightmare along the West Michigan lakeshore Monday afternoon and evening as heavy lake-effect snow fell for hours.
The 13 ON YOUR SIDE Weather Impact Team saw several vehicles that came off the roadway and spun Monday.
This was the scene north of South Haven on the side of I-196 during the evening commute.
Michigan State Police responded to a crash involving about 14 cars and 3 semi-trucks on I-94 near Hartford early Monday afternoon. Both lanes of traffic were shut down for hours and one person was critically injured.
"You need to slow down out on the highways," said Michigan State Police Lt. Michelle Robinson.
Christian Lefley and his dog spent their day cleaning up the snowy mess in the Saugatuck area. He told 13 ON YOUR SIDE it was tough to keep up with Mother Nature using a plow and skid steer.
Jim Schutzenhofer got caught in the mess on his way home from the gym after work near Holland.
"It's been pretty crazy, it's been very treacherous, just icy, slippery, not all that much build up," he said.
MSP advises drivers to leave enough space between other cars, and if involved in a crash, stay in their vehicle.
Michigan.gov has tips on how to stay safe while driving during winter weather conditions. You can click on any of those following hyperlinks to learn more:
"Drive slow on ice & snow" is the theme for michigan.gov's winter driving safety program. That's because it's their #1 tip for staying safe on wintry roads.
Keep your car well maintained. And before you head out, take the time to clear your car of snow and ice, and stock it with the supplies you need.
Your tires are the only points of contact between your car and the road, so choose them wisely and maintain them well.
Drivers aren't the only ones at risk on wintry roads. Do your part to keep passengers and pedestrians safe.
Know how to safely navigate your way around snowplows, and what to expect if you're behind one.
Would you know what to do if your battery died on a snowy road? Learn how to stay safe while waiting for help.