Reduced visibility and slippery road conditions kept the Airdrie Integrated Traffic Unit (ITU) busy last week as members responded to several accidents along Highway 2 between the Calgary city limits and Didsbury overpass.
Beginning early Nov. 8, Airdrie ITU officers were called out to eight separate property damage collisions on Highway 2, none of which resulted in injury.
With more than 20 centimetres of snow fall in some areas, roads remained slick well into the weekend and made travel difficult.
“We were very busy Thursday and Friday (Nov. 8 and 9),” said Airdrie ITU Sheriff Jason Graw.
“We knew the storm was coming and had additional resources on hand, but people still need to be careful when driving on icy roads.”
Though the storm was reported well in advance of the Nov. 8 morning commute, many drivers were still caught off-guard and were not prepared for the long delays.
Over two days, Environment Canada reported temperatures dipping down to -24°C, in addition to blowing snow and fog.
According to Graw, treacherous road conditions like these are something motorists need to adequately prepare for and changing driving habits with the change of weather is essential in ensuring safer winter driving.
“When extreme weather hits, our officers are often responding to accidents all over the area and may not be able to get to a stranded vehicle for quite some time,” said Graw.
“In those situations, we tell people that they should be able to take care of themselves for upwards to an hour. Our officers need to be cautious on roads too.”
Having supplies like a shovel, warm clothing, heat source and food in your vehicle are all highly recommended.
“It’s also important to have a cell phone on hand,” noted Graw.
“In your phone you should always have the number of a tow truck and also the number of a close friend or family member that will be able to come get you if you find yourself stuck somewhere.”
Not taking the time to adjust driving habits for the change in season is another thing Graw believes contributes dramatically to unnecessary accidents.
“A highway that typically has a posted speed limit of 110 km/h should not be driven at the same speed under slippery conditions,” said Graw.
“Your speed should reduce dramatically and you should also keep a good distance between yourself and the car in front. Brake times need to be adjusted and four-wheel-drive does not mean you will be able to brake any quicker.”
Proper car maintenance is also vital, which includes everything from having winter tires to making sure your windshield washer fluid is topped up.
“Being safe on winter roads just requires people to think about what they’re doing,” said Graw.
“It’s about being prepared and knowing that you are going to have to take your time.”
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