By Chief Steven J. Wojnar
Dudley Police Department Snow and ice storms are normal parts of the New England winter. Whenever major weather events occur, those of us in the public safety field must be out working in the elements. We often notice some drivers neglecting some basic precautions. This can be of concern for new drivers and junior operators. I wanted to take this opportunity to provide some winter safety reminders for drivers. Besides the obvious safety points, such as driving defensively and using seatbelts, many things are important to keep in mind. First and foremost, if you do not have to travel, stay home. Many people can perform some work from home. Take advantage of that possibility if it exists. Fewer drivers reduce the number of crashes and provide the highway workers additional freedom to do their work. If you must travel, be sure to leave extra time to arrive at your destination and drive slowly when conditions are bad. Keep plenty of distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Try to avoid slamming on your brakes as this will increase the possibility of skids and loss of control. This is especially important for new drivers. New drivers have limited experience operating under adverse weather conditions. A major consideration is speed. If a road is posted at 40mph, it does not mean you can still drive at that rate during a storm. The law requires drivers to travel at appropriate speeds for existing conditions. Often, people operating pickup trucks, SUV’s, or other four-wheel drive vehicles travel faster. These drivers may have increased confidence traveling on messy roads; however, it does not necessarily allow them to stop quickly. The faster you travel, the greater the distance you need to make a full and safe stop. Remember to remove or prevent any unnecessary distractions on or around your vehicle. As I have mentioned previously, clear snow and ice from the windows, roof, trunk, or hood. It is especially difficult to see when mirrors and other lines of vision are obscured. Snowfall and other inclement weather will diminish visibility naturally, so it is important not to add to the difficulties. |
Finally, do not “rush” out onto the roads when the storm ends unless it is absolutely necessary. The public may not know it takes an additional six to eight hours for the highway workers to finish the roadwork after the snow stops. This time is needed to scrape and widen the roads (and intersections) as well as put down sand or salt. Even though the snow fall ends, the work is not done. We always have numerous crashes and cars off the road during these type of weather events. This may have been avoided if travel was limited. If you are driving, pull over or get off the road when the plows approach and allow them plenty of room to pass by. Your cooperation is certainly appreciated. Any precautions you take while driving in bad weather can limit accidents and injuries.
Thanks again for your questions and comments. Please send them to me at the Dudley Police Department 71 West Main St. Dudley, Ma. 01571 or email at swojnar@dudleypolice.com. Opinions expressed in this weekly column are those of Chief Wojnar only and unless clearly noted, do not reflect the ideas or opinions of any other organization or citizen. |
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