Snow, ice call for vigilance on roads

By NewsPress Now

Drivers are being cautioned to take extra safety precautions while traveling in snowy conditions.

Road crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation said drivers should be aware that many parts of the road that may not appear dangerous could still be covered in ice during snow events.

“Never underestimate how the road may look,” said Greg Bolon, Northwest MoDOT District traffic engineer. “Even though you see snow, a lot of times you’re going to have a little thin layer of ice on the pavement if you break through that snow, so be real careful when you’re going around curbs and when you’re trying to stop.”

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said collision rates do increase during the winter months, and anyone who plans on being on the roads during winter storms or severe weather should take safety precautions.

“If you do have to go to work … wake up early and allow yourself plenty of time to clean your vehicle off properly and arrive to your destination in a safe manner,” said Sgt. Shane Hux with Troop H of the MSHP. “If you do happen to slide off the road, stay inside your vehicle because if you slid off the road, chances are, someone else sliding off the road in that location is just as great, which could lead to a bad injury if you happened to exit your vehicle.”

Officials said the best advice they can offer for the expected snow is to stay indoors when possible.