In Collinsville, Illinois during this last snow storm, Illinois snow plows were not just dealing with lots of snow and ice but also inpatient drivers! Illinois Department of Transportation spokesman Joseph Monroe said six snow plows were involved in car accidents since the snow initially started falling--forcing two snow plows out of commission.
As we gear up for another possible snow storm, remember the snow plows! Slow down and don't pass a snow plow unless totally necessary.
Slow Down and Don't Pass a Snow Plow
This seems like common sense, right? I mean the road in front of the snow plow is likely to be much worse than the road behind it--logically speaking! Due to the recent cold temperatures, the normal salt mixtures including chemicals and beat juice were ineffective under 10 degrees. But when there is a lot of snow and ice, the snow plows are out in force trying to clear the road for drivers. Let's not work against them by trying to a pass them just because we are in a hurry!
"I don't care if you put me on a loop all day and just say give the plows plenty of room and slow down", said IDoT spokesman. When roads are treacherous, just being out on the highways is risky. If you have to drive, be sure to take your time and allow plenty of time to reach your destination. I know during these winter months, I've blogged about this topic so many times. Because, the mere action of slowing down decreases your risk for being involved in a car accident. When the roads are covered, the risks for a car accident increase greatly and can result in serious injuries and fatalities. Every year we see serious injuries and fatalities from winter related car accidents. So, slow down! Car accidents can happen easily enough without us adding speed on top of bad roads to the equation!
Missouri Snow Plow Efforts
Currently, Missouri attacks most storms with about 500 personnel taking turns on 225 snow plows with 12 hour shift changes. Twelve-hour shifts? Honestly, that is a lot of personnel working very hard to clear the highways and interstates for each of us and the least we can do is cooperate and not try to pass them when they are doing their jobs.
If You Are Involved in an Auto Accident?
If you are involved in an auto accident while the roads are snow/ice covered, you may think that you do not have a personal injury claim or that the accident was an "act of God" because of the weather. You may be incorrect. Depending on the nature/facts of your accident, it may involve another driver's error, negligence or inattentiveness. Car accidents are not always caused by one factor and if you are not certain of the cause, you should talk with a personal injury attorney. In fact, if you have been injured, you need to talk with a personal injury attorney to be sure that you get the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys understand the importance of having your case worked up properly from the beginning
6 Car Verses Plow Accidents Reported in Illinois. KMOX 1/6/13