As the first significant snow falls on the Park Rapids area this winter, remember to drive safely.
After months of dry roads, we might forget to take extra time and care driving from destination to destination.
Hubbard County Chief Deputy Frank Homer said the sheriff's department has already seen a few fender benders due to people likely driving too fast for the weather conditions. Luckily, there haven't been too many serious accidents yet. We hope that doesn't change.
Many people are in a hurry to get from place to place. But planning ahead and leaving five or 10 minutes early and driving more slowly could save a life.
The Departments of Public Safety and Transportation reported that during 2005-07 in Minnesota, officers reported snowy or icy road conditions in nearly 41,000 crashes that resulted in 159 traffic deaths and more than 13,000 injuries.
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An accident Sunday near Zerkel resulted in the death of an 18-year-old. The State Patrol said there were scattered slippery spots in the area at the time the crash happened.
Accidents can't always be prevented but in some cases, driving a little more slowly could prevent a crash.
Other winter driving reminders include:
-Always use seat belts.
-Keep a safe stopping distance between vehicles, and leave extra room between vehicles.
-Accelerate and decelerate slowly on icy/snow-covered roads to retrain traction and avoid skids.
-Do not use cruise-control.
-Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of the foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
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-Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and directional signals.
-Headlights must be turned on when it is snowing or sleeting.
Remember to drive safely - it could save a life.
