(WOIO) -
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 2010 through March 2011, 37,429 crashes occurred on snow, ice or slush
covered roadways killing 46 people and injuring 7,844. Speed was reported as
the main cause in 77 percent of these crashes. To view a breakdown of these
crashes visit http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Winter_Driving.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, take longer on snow-covered
roadways.
"In
case of a vehicle break-down, motorists should turn on their hazard warning
lights, safely position the vehicle as far off the road as possible, call
1-877-7-PATROL for assistance and remain in the vehicle until help arrives,"
explained Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent.
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
- 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, www.buckeyetraffic.org.
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