1/2/14 - Mother Nature marked the start of the New Year with a multi-day storm that continues, resulting in crashes and spin-outs on local roads and freeways. Snowfall began Tuesday and continued this morning across southeast Michigan and in Livingston County. Roads remain slippery and mostly snow-covered, making for a slow commute. There are numerous reports of accidents and run-offs, and a snow plow went into a ditch on eastbound I-96 near Novi. Between the ice storm that knocked out power to thousands before Christmas and now this latest storm, crews with the Livingston County Road Commission have been putting in lots of hours and overtime to keep roads as safe for travel as possible. Managing Director Mike Craine reminds that they use large, heavy machinery and motorists need to give them ample room to work. Craine says motorists should be aware that maintenance trucks throughout the state are moving at slower speeds on purpose, especially on freeways to reduce the bounce and scatter of salt so that less is wasted and allowing it to work better. The change in the salting practices is largely designed to reduce costs and increase effectiveness and efficiency, and more salt on the roadway means safer road conditions for motorists. A winter weather advisory remains in effect until noon today for Livingston County. The National Weather Service reports totals of 5 to 8 inches are expected, with snow tapering off around midday. (JM)
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