ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – With the winter storm impacting the Commonwealth of Virginia, it is important to stay off the roads to allow VDOT and emergency crews to work.
Since midnight on February 11, there have been a total of 73 crashes with four total injuries and no fatalities.
The Virginia State Police in the Appomattox Division has covered areas including Charlottesville, Staunton, Lynchburg, and South Boston where 7 crashes have occurred with no fatalities.
VSP in Wytheville’s division has reported 42 rashes and no reported injuries. It is encouraged for residents to stay off the road; however, if you have to travel consider the following:
- Use your headlights – this will allow drivers to increase visibility on the road and will help locate dangerous spots on the roads.
- Slow down – Slowing your speed will give drivers more time to react to avoid a crash while also controlling your vehicle. Consider the conditions you are driving in.
- Don’t tailgate – Tailgating on slick surfaces is unsafe for drivers as it decreases time to avoid collisions.
- Buckle up – Most winter crashes involve a car hitting a guardrail or other vehicles. Wearing your seatbelt will protect not only the driver but the passengers from being thrown around and seriously hurt in a crash.
- Check your car – Make sure your vehicle can handle the road conditions and the weather. Fill up the gas tank, check the windshield wipers and fluid, tire tread, battery life and more.
- Don’t leave your house – Make sure the necessary items are in the car including a window scraper, blankets, water, snacks, cell phone charger, and a flashlight.
For more information about road conditions visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov.