Patrol Offers Tips and Warnings about Driving in Winter Weather

GALLIPOLIS/POMEROY – The Gallia/Meigs Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is warning drivers about the dangers of driving in winter weather and is offering some tips on what drivers should do in the event of a vehicle break down or a crash.

From December 2013 through March 2014, 33,085 crashes occurred on snow, ice or slush covered roadways killing 38 people and injuring 9,013. Speed-related factors were reported as a cause in 49 percent of these crashes. To view a breakdown of winter crashes visit
http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Winter_Driving_Bulletin_2014.pdf

In the event of inclement weather, the Patrol is urging motorists to allow extra time to get to their destination, maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the traffic ahead, pay close attention to bridges and overpasses – as they are often the first to freeze over – and to drive slowly, as everything including accelerating, turning and braking, takes longer on snow-covered roadways. It’s important that motorists follow these tips from the Patrol. They are set in place to try and prevent injuries to the public. Of course, there will still be accidents from those who don’t follow these tips. If an accident does occur, it might be worth getting in touch with an accident lawyer in your local area. They could help you to seek compensation if the accident was caused by another driver. This compensation could cover the cost of any damage to your vehicle or any medical bills, for example. Hopefully, more drivers will be taking their time on the roads, reducing the number of accidents.

While different states are affected by different climates during the winter months, car safety should still be at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Accidents caused by ice, snow and other winter conditions are seen as more prevalent in northern states, rather than states in the southern parts of America. It could be argued that this could be seen in insurance coverages within these states, with many drivers asking is mechanical breakdown insurance worth it in California, Florida or Texas, due to their climates during the winter season. However, breakdowns and accidents can occur in any state whether or not they are affected by the winter climate.

“In case of a vehicle breakdown, motorists should turn on their hazard warning lights, safely position the vehicle as far off the road as possible, call #677 for assistance and remain in the vehicle until help arrives,” explained Lt. Max Norris, commander of the Gallia/Meigs Post.

Troopers further suggest that if you get stuck in snow; make sure that your tail pipe is free of all snow and debris, to decrease your chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

All motorists are encouraged to prepare their vehicle for winter driving by ensuring that the battery, cooling system, tires, wipers and defroster are all in working order. Drivers are also encouraged to carry the following winter car kit items in their vehicle in case of a breakdown:
• Cell phone with car charger
• Your phone should also have the number of a towing service Rustburg
• Road flares or reflectors
• Help or Call Police signs
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Blanket/Sleeping bag
• Small shovel
• Bottled water and energy foods
• Candles and matches
• Tow strap/chain

Up-to-the-minute road conditions are always available by logging onto the Ohio Department of Transportation’s website, ohgo.com.