Last month, we witnessed how a fierce winter storm can catch drivers off guard and impact our roadways. That’s why the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to prepare their vehicles for winter and follow general roadway safety tips to help reduce the risk of being involved in a crash.
In Ohio last winter, there were 12,939 crashes on snow, ice and slush-covered roads that resulted in 17 fatalities and 3,364 injuries. Unsafe speed by the at-fault driver was the reported cause of 21% of the crashes.
Before traveling in your vehicle, clear the snow and ice from the windows, headlights, and taillights. Allow defrosters time to work to increase visibility. Examine your tires for plenty of tread, check your battery, and keep the windshield washer reservoir full.
When traveling on the roadways, stay focused, be patient, drive slowly and increase your following distance. It takes longer to stop and turn. Bridges, ramps and overpasses will freeze first. Ohio law requires headlights to be on when the windshield wipers are in use.
Assemble a winter car kit that includes an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, cell phone charger, first aid kit, tow rope, and food and water for longer trips.
If you’re stranded, remain calm. If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, clear the tailpipe free of all snow and debris to decrease the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If your vehicle breaks down or you are involved in a crash, turn on your hazard lights, move your vehicle as far off the roadway as possible, remain in the vehicle, and dial #677.
If you must travel in winter weather, visit OHGO for real-time traffic conditions from the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Click here for the Highway Patrol’s safety bulletin for Jan. 2023.