Patrol has winter driving suggestions

Ohio State Highway Patrol news

Winter weather driving is here to stay and the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Van Wert Post is asking all motorists to take additional care when driving during this season.  During the winter months of December 2012 through March 2013 there were 103 weather related crashes in Van Wert and Paulding Counties.  During this time period, there were two deaths in the Van Wert Post area. Statewide there were 42 deaths and 5,523 injuries in 18,779 weather related crashes.

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. 

The factors in most weather related crashes are unsafe speed, following too closely, and failure to control.

“During inclement weather drivers should allow more time for themselves to arrive at their destination, increase following distance behind other vehicles, and slow down sooner for turns and stops,” said Lieutenant Les Brode, Van Wert Post commander. “Already this year, the Van Wert Post has seen two deaths during this season and we hope to prevent further loss of life.”

Lt. Brode urged motorists and occupants to buckle up anytime they are in a motor vehicle as it is one of the most effective ways of preventing injury or death during a traffic crash. 

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds area residents to prepare their vehicle for winter driving.  Have a vehicle’s battery, cooling system, tires, wipers, and defrosters all checked to ensure they are all in good condition and working properly.

“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,” Lt. Brode said.