(KNSI) — Safe driving is the final theme as Winter Hazard Awareness Week comes to an end.
Just this week, the Minnesota State Patrol says it responded to more than 1,100 crashes, 378 spinouts and several jackknifed semis. The numbers weren’t surprising to Benton County Sheriff Troy Heck. He said it happens every year.
“Be conscious of the upcoming winter weather. It seems that every time we get that first snowfall for whatever reason those several months of not having to deal with winter weather push out of our brain the fact that we have to slow down when that snow falls.”
Heck says some of the issues have to do with relearning how to drive in challenging conditions. He says to make sure and plan ahead and give yourself extra time to reach your expected destination.
“MnDOT has a great app that lists the current road conditions that’s updated in real-time and crashes. That’ll help give you an idea of how much time you might expect you’ll have to expend on roads in winter weather and I’d encourage people to make use of that.”
Also keep a winter survival kit in the trunk in case you get stranded. Pack it with things like blankets, extra winter clothing, jumper cables, a phone charger, sand or kitty litter and healthy snacks.
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