In December 2013, the Menomonee Falls Police Department responded to the largest local multi-vehicle crash in recent memory. The massive pileup on Interstate 41 involved dozens of vehicles sliding into each other due to the slippery conditions. The interstate was shut down for hours and motorists were stranded.
Driving on wintry roadways can be challenging and stressful. While we cannot control Mother Nature, this article provides some preventative safety tips to help you reach your destination safely as we encounter the sometimes harsh Wisconsin weather.
First and foremost, if you encounter severe snow storms, consider delaying your travels until roadway conditions become safer. Stranded motorists create extra hazards for plow operators, law enforcement, and other emergency responders.
When travel is necessary, take the extra time to properly clean the snow and ice off your vehicle windows. We often observe vehicles with only a small area scraped clear on the windshield just in front of the driver’s seat. This is dangerous and greatly limits your visibility of other vehicles and pedestrians. It’s important to know that drivers can be cited for failing to clean their windows reasonably.
You should also be aware that posted speed limits apply to “ideal travel conditions.” State law requires drivers to travel at speeds that are reasonable and prudent for current conditions. Speed limits are set for when roads are clear and dry, so it may be too dangerous to drive at the posted speed limit in slippery conditions.
Remember that bridges & overpasses can be especially slippery. Cruise control should not be used in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. Be sure to keep a safe distance behind large trucks. Along with obscuring your view of the road ahead, pieces of snow or ice can sometimes blow off the top of commercial trucks as they travel down the highway. Likewise, watch for snowplows and stay at least 200 feet behind one that is working. Plow drivers have limited visibility and the vehicles often create a cloud of snow that can obscure visibility for all.
During adverse weather, you should turn on your vehicle’s low-beam headlights. This helps you see what’s ahead and helps other drivers see you. State law requires drivers to turn on their vehicle’s low-beam headlights whenever weather or other conditions make it difficult to see objects 500 feet ahead.
Although you may be operating that new Ford F250 or Cadillac Escalade, don’t be overconfident in your four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicle. All vehicles require additional time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
Lastly, be sure to have a fully charged phone and emergency kit stored in your vehicle. If you become stranded or slide off the road, stay buckled up in your vehicle and call for help. Getting out of your vehicle is very dangerous, especially in winter weather.
Be safe out there!