Missouri State Highway Patrol busy working response calls

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is cautioning drivers to take extra time as extreme winter weather persists.

In less than 24 hours, officers from Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H responded to 36 calls for service, 24 stranded motorists and five non-injury crashes.

Troopers said that many crashes are occurring due to people driving too fast and following other drivers “too close.”

“A prime example, yesterday as the snow was covering the roadways, whenever you approach a MoDOT plow, they’re blowing that snow around, decreasing visibility tremendously,” said Sgt. Shane Hux with the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “You have to make sure you can still see what’s ahead of you.”

Along with their normal duties— pulling over speeding cars and enforcing other laws — the cold weather brings a new set of challenges that requires assisting stranded drivers.

State troopers say it all comes down to planning for the weather conditions and making sure your vehicle is well-maintained before driving in freezing temperatures.

“We understand people have places to be, but we’re seeing a lot of drivers out there on the roads and their vehicle can’t handle it,” Hux said. “Make sure you have a good defrost in your vehicle, a good battery and appropriate tires so you’re driving on the roadways with a car that is dependable.”

In the case a motorist does become stranded, drivers are urged to keep an emergency winter supply kit in the car.

“We always tell people to hope for the best but plan for the worst,” Hux said. “So, in those scenarios, you want to make sure you have extra blankets, extra coats, hats, gloves, medication and all those important things. “You never know when we’re going to have roadways closed due to motor vehicle crashes, lane closures or detours.”

Whether it be snow or ice, the roadways are very dangerous right now and if you do not have to be on them, it is highly recommended to stay home.