Winter storm brings increased risks on Mid-Missouri roads
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
With inclement weather looming, Mid-Missourians are bracing for hazardous driving conditions.
MU Health Care emergency physician Dr. Christopher Sampson says that many of the severe injuries they treat during snow storms are due to car accidents.
“During the storm or the initial hours of the storm, if there's not a reason to be out, you probably should stay indoors because most of the time we see people who are out driving and the roads are not in great condition, they’ll slide off,” Sampson said. “If you need to go out and drive, you should probably have things in your vehicle to be prepared in case you do slide off. It may take some time for tow trucks to get you out or for assistance to get to you.”
Sampson advises people to store blankets, water, and small snacks in their vehicles if they plan on traveling this weekend and to leave the house with appropriate cold-weather shoes.
“Always have a jacket in your vehicle. Some people leave from inside a warm garage and go out driving and never think about that they might have to be outside for a brief period of time or longer,” Sampson explained.
AAA is anticipating a 200% increase in emergency roadside service calls, compared to normal, as this round of wintry weather sweeps through the area. According to AAA, dead batteries are the top reason drivers call for emergency roadside assistance. The average lifespan for a car battery is 3-5 years which is why AAA advises people to get their battery checked before inclement weather arrives. When air temperatures drop below 32 degrees, a battery’s starting power can drop by 35 percent.
Experts also warn that tires can lose 1 pound of air pressure for every ten-degree drop in temperature, which is why it is important to check your tire's air pressure and tread depth. An easy way to find tire wear is by sticking a quarter into the grooves of your tires. If the top of George Washington’s head is showing, it signals worn tires that need to be replaced.
Checking wiper blades and fluid is also critical for visibility during snowy conditions. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds drivers that under Missouri law, if you are using windshield wipers then headlights must be turned on.
MSHP also suggests keeping your fuel tank at least half full and placing battery jumper cables, an ice scraper, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a small shovel and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk. Sand or cat litter can be used to improve a vehicle's traction if it gets stuck in the snow.
It is recommended that you leave at least five seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you to maximize safety on the roadways. If your car begins to slide, the best thing to do is lift off the gas and lightly tap the brakes.
Slamming the break will result in tires locking up and increase the risk of sliding off the road. It’s also important to steer in the direction of the skid to help self-correct the vehicle.
