Police are reminding area residents to be prepared for winter driving.
Wellington County OPP officials say that Dec. 15, during a 24-hour period, officers responded to 58 motor vehicle collisions in the county.
“One of the collisions involved a parked police cruiser that was struck while the officer was investigating a collision,” police stated.
“The cruiser had three occupants in the rear seat at the time and one was treated for minor injuries. The officer was outside the vehicle at the time and was not injured. The cruiser was severely damaged.”
Wellington County OPP Inspector Scott Lawson said “a majority” of the Dec. 15 collisions were preventable.
“Motorists need to adjust their driving according to the weather and road conditions. We all need to just slow down and take our time,” said Lawson.
Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act requires motorists approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights flashing (in the same direction of travel, either in a lane or on the shoulder of the road), to slow down and pass with caution. If the road has two or more lanes the motorist must move over into another lane, if it can be done safely.
Police are offering the following safety tips:
– if travel is not required, stay home;
– ensure vehicles are winter ready and have received regular maintenance;
– plan trips and check weather conditions;
– notify a family member or friend of the destination and potential arrival time;
– slow down and create distance between vehicles;
– do not pass winter maintenance vehicles;
– if not comfortable driving, don’t drive;
– ensure vehicles have extra windshield fluid and at least half a tank of gas;
– take the time to clear the vehicle of snow and ice;
– have an emergency kit containing battery jumper cables, a first aid kit, shovel, multi-tool, blanket, extra clothing, high calorie non-perishable food supply, flashlight, ice-snow scraper and cell phone; and
– check the Ministry of Transportation website for road conditions prior to leaving (do not call 911 or the OPP for road reports; log on to www.mto.on.ca).
