A big part of the problem was that an estimated 1.1 million people got on the roads at the same time.

I grew up in New York and have no problem driving in those conditions. The reason I got the bike ready was because there was nowhere to drive. Every street in both directions (including emergency lanes) was blocked for miles. Even if you had a zamboni you weren't going anywhere.

Thanks for the thoughts Craig and Cinda. Honestly, my wife was the hero though. She was born here, and has seen less snow in her lifetime as I saw in most winters growing up. She began to panic a few times, but was receptive to reason and did an awesome job getting herself home. I wish everyone was able to do the same.