By: Lydia Baker-Crawley
The Parsons Advocate
With the hazards of winter mountain driving well in swing for this year’s winter season, there are a few tips that drivers can use this winter behind the wheel and in case of emergencies to help them safely home in inclement weather. The NHTSA reported that in 2023 there were 320 fatal traffic crashed and an estimated 22,293 injury crashes that occurred when there was snow/sleet conditions at the time of the crash. In total police reported 101,390 traffic crashes that year.
ReadyWV recommends that drivers check the following before heading out in bad weather: Make sure all lights are in good working order. Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights and if pulling a trailer, that all trailer lights are operational, as well.
Also check the windshield wipers and wiper fluid level. During a storm, drivers can go through a lot of washer fluid. Be sure to stock the reservoir with “Winter” washer fluid with de-icer before winter weather begins. Check wiper blades and replace if necessary and be sure defrosters are in good working order.
Another recommendation is to check coolant levels and that the coolant meets the manufacturer’s specifications. These specifications can be found in the vehicle’s owner’s manual, online or ask for help at the local parts store. Most are very helpful. Also check the coolant system for any leaks or cracked hoses. If unsure of doing it yourself, take to a local mechanic for a winter checkup and ask them to check for leaks, badly worn hoses, or other needed parts, repairs or replacements.
ReadyWV recommends that all loose snow be removed from vehicles prior to leaving, as flying snow has been known to cause accidents. Items that are suggested to be carried in a vehicle in winter include: a snow shovel, broom or brush and an ice scraper; abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter in case the vehicle is stuck in snow; jumper cables; a flashlight; a warning device such as flares or emergency markers; a first aid kit that includes a tourniquet; blankets; a cell phone and charger; water; food; and any necessary medicines. Be sure to keep vehicles as close to full of fuel as possible at all times.
When traveling, ReadyWV recommends that drivers not only plan their routes thoroughly, but check local weather and traffic reports prior to leaving . If the roads are not in optimal condition, consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Should the worst happen and the vehicle should become stopped or stalled in winter weather, ReadyWV recommends that drivers stay focused on themselves, their passengers, vehicle and surroundings. Should an emergency happen, it is recommended that drivers and passengers stay with the vehicle and not overexert themselves. Make sure the vehicle can be seen by passersby. Place bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep interior dome lights on. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, ReadyWV recommends that exhaust pipes be checked and kept clear of any snow and that the engine only be ran sporadically and only long enough to stay warm. Never run the vehicle for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed place.
The West Virginia Division of Highways states on its website, “It is the intention of the West Virginia Division of Highways to control snow and ice conditions on all state maintained roadways, so traffic may continue to move as safely as possible with a minimum amount of inconvenience.”
The State uses a three tier system to maintain the more than 35,000 miles of roadways that need clearing during winter weather events to maintain road safety. During an average year, the WVDOH will spend $55 million during the November to March Snow Removal and Ice Control season.
First Priority Routes for road crews are roads of major importance with high traffic volume. These roads are plowed and treated first and receive ongoing maintenance during weather events. Examples of First Priority Routes are all Interstates, major routes and high traffic roadways connecting urban areas.
Second Priority Routes are roads of slightly less importance than First Priority Routes. These roads don’t have quite enough traffic volume to be included as a First Priority Route, such as school bus routes. These routes are covered as conditions permit by the same equipment and personnel assigned to the maintenance of First Priority Routes.
Third Priority Routes are low traffic roads that only receive attention after all Second Priority Routes have been maintained.
During Winter Weather events, the WVDOH use a combination of three products on area roadways. Sodium Chloride, commonly called “road salt” is mixed with rock, cinders or sand and used to melt existing snow and ice on paved surfaces. Salt cannot be used on surface treated, gravel or dirt roads and works best in temperatures over 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Calcium Chloride is a liquid de-icer used in extreme conditions and in low temperatures to melt ice and snow. Brine is a mix of salt and water sprayed on pavements before snow and ice fall to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the roadway surface.
WVDOH recommends that drivers follow the following tips to stay safe on WV roads this winter: Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights; buckle up “it’s the law!”; just drive, avoid distractions behind the wheel; slow down, it takes longer to stop, accelerate and turn on snow covered roads; leave extra space between your vehicle and other vehicles around you; do not use cruise control; don’t crowd the plow, keep back at lease 100 feet; have a roadside safety kit on hand and check road conditions before heading out by dialing 5-1-1 from a landline or cell phone or log onto www.wv511.org for traffic information, road conditions and weather information.
