Slick Roads, Unsafe Speeds Contribute to Many Morning Crashes

A fatal crash on I-35E at Pilot Knob Rd. was one of 26 traffic crashes this morning in the metro area — six of which were rollovers. The State Patrol attributes the rash of crashes to motorists traveling at unsafe speeds with disregard to road conditions.

Peterson urges drivers to be patient as they re-acclimate their driving skills to the challenge of icy roads. In 2005, there were 20 deaths and 2,221 injuries during icy weather conditions.

The State Patrol recommends the following for safe winter driving:- Always use seat belts.- Give yourself plenty of travel time — don’t put your schedule before safety.- Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and directional signals.- Adjust speed to road and weather conditions.- Lower speeds help drivers avoid crashes and minimize those that occur.- Keep a safe stopping distance between vehicles, and leave extra room between your vehicle and snow plows or other removal equipment.- Avoid using cruise-control.- Headlights must be turned on when it is snowing or sleeting.