South Bruce OPP say they charged three drivers for driving on a closed highway during this past weekend’s snowfall event.
They say they were kept busy responding to an increase in traffic related calls.
According to OPP, between 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 17th and 2:05 p.m. on Sunday, November 20th they responded to 36 traffic calls in addition to several other calls for service.
Police say the additional calls were a combination of motor vehicle collisions, vehicles stopped in live lanes of traffic, vehicles left on the shoulder of the road and vehicles in ditches.
OPP note, a common cause of wintertime crashes is “Speed too fast for conditions.”
South Bruce OPP Detachment Commander Krista Miller says in a statement, “The recent storm reminded us that motorists can face rapidly changing driving conditions due to the lake effect caused by Lake Huron. Arriving safely this time of year starts with leaving extra time and reducing your speed. It’s also important to think about postponing your trip. This past weekend, our officers responded to a 2-vehicle crash and two calls on vehicles that slid into the ditch on a closed highway. The highway was closed for safety do to pockets of zero visibility causing dangerous driving conditions. Three motorists were charged with driving on a closed highway, but the consequences could have been so much worse. Road safety is a shared responsibility, please do your part.”
They say their first tip for safe winter driving is “If you see snow – go slow.”
They add, you should look far ahead when you drive so you can recognize hazards in advance and have plenty of time to respond. Modern vehicles with all-wheel drive, electronic traction control and snow tires will help you keep control of your vehicle in winter, but they are not effective unless you slow down.
Police advise you to check weather and travel conditions before heading out, saying, “Don’t take chances if the weather is bad. Allow yourself extra time for travel or wait until conditions improve. If you are travelling and get caught in bad weather, tune to a local radio station for road closure bulletins.”
Police say, it’s best to carry a winter survival kit with you when you travel. Extra clothing, winter boots, blankets, and snack foods are recommended. Having a candle and waterproof matches can help heat the interior of your vehicle if it stalls or you become stranded. A kit list is available online at www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/winterdrive.
They advise you to prepare your vehicle before you travel by clearing snow and ice so it doesn’t obstruct your view to the front, side or rear of the vehicle and remove excess snow. They say, “The snow will blow off as you drive, but the mini “squall” you create is a hazard for drivers behind you and could cause a serious injury.”
Police add, “An ordinary driver reacts to the changing road and weather conditions while a good driver anticipates problems before they occur. Slow down and give everyone a chance to arrive safely at their destination.”
For more information on winter driving safety, you can visit: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/safety/winterdrive/winterdrive.shtml/.