Winter driving conditions cause for caution

Spokane County received its first taste of winter driving Monday morning, and unfortunately for many motorists, it fell during the workday commute.

Roads that were merely wet in some places were a slippery sheet of black ice in others, said Sheriff’s Office spokesman Sgt. Dave Reagan.

Deputies and Spokane Valley police officers were kept hopping as they ran from crash to crash, many involving single vehicles that had simply slid off the roadway. Although none was particularly severe, many involved injury to the occupants and costly damage to the vehicle.

Sheriff’s traffic collision investigators have some tips that might save other area motorists from becoming a crash statistic.

If you allowed yourself 30 minutes to get to work on time in August, you should probably allow 45 minutes for the next few months. The added minutes allow you to lower your speed as you navigate ever-changing road conditions due to winter weather.

Remember, speed limits are estimated for the best possible road and weather conditions. It makes sense to slow down a bit for rain, snow and ice. And remember to increase your following distance so that you don’t rear-end the car ahead of you. That set of all season radials you thought might last another year might not work so well on snow and ice, so replace them now. The cost of the tires will probably be less than the cost to replace bumpers and fenders.

While you’re checking out the tires, take a look at your wiper blades and your head-, tail- and brake lights. Use your turn signals, especially in bad weather. The driver behind you may not be able to overcome your surprise turn or stop.

Allow yourself more distance to stop at intersections. If you find yourself sliding toward a stop sign or red light, move toward the curb or onto the shoulder as sand and gravel is usually moved there by traffic and plows.

It’s always a good idea to limit your distractions while driving, but it’s especially important during winter road trips. Many drivers become accustomed to the feel of their vehicle and can detect when it begins to slide – if they are paying attention. Put down the cellular phone and beverages until you are parked.

Clean the inside of your windshield and windows as cigarette or vinyl haze attracts moisture and can cause them to fog up. Stock your car with a blanket, some safety flares or hazard markers, and a pair of winter walking shoes. Many parts of Spokane County get very little traffic and you might end up having to walk for help if you become stuck.

Perhaps the most important winter driving safety tip comes after you’ve checked out your car or truck from bumper to bumper. Winter drivers should check their driving attitude. Courtesy toward other motorists can go a long way toward preventing a slide-off or crash.