As we’re all pulling out our winter coats, boots, toques and mitts: it’s time to pull out our good winter driving habits. Residents of Regina woke up this morning to the first snowfall of the season. Driving conditions will be challenging for the remainder of the day with current weather presenting blowing snow, reduced visibility and steady winds.
So far today, it appears drivers are not handling the change in weather very well. Between midnight and 11:00 a.m. today, November 1, 2017, there have been 22 motor vehicle collisions in Regina. Only one of these involves injury, but it is a vehicle pedestrian collision, so the injuries may be serious. The other 21 are property damage collisions.
Since today’s weather will be the norm in the months to come, the Regina Police Service is encouraging drivers to employ the following winter driving strategies:
• Reduce speed on most roadways. The posted speed limit represents the maximum allowed under ideal conditions. Snow and ice on the road surface and reduced visibility because of blowing snow are less-than-ideal conditions. Slow down!
• Allow more stopping distance; apply your brakes carefully. Give more time and care to all driving manoeuvres;
• Don’t follow too closely. Give more room between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you;
• Allow more travel time to reach your destination. Being late increases the temptation to drive faster than conditions permit.
• Clear all snow from your vehicle. See and be seen!
• Check weather forecasts and the highway hotline before taking a road trip. If weather and road conditions are deteriorating, consider staying where you are.
This winter season, purchase (or make) and keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle. A warm blanket, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, booster cables, extra mittens or gloves, first aid kit, a collapsible snow shovel, matches and flares can go a long way if you need them.
If you are involved in a collision this season, or see one happening, call 9-1-1 and try to keep warm in your vehicle until help arrives. If you see an accident and officers are assisting, please move to the far lane and slow down while passing emergency vehicles with equipment activated. Don’t let “seasonal amnesia” dictate your driving habits. Please take care on our roadways and arrive at your destinations safely!