Vehicles are seen driving along Sixth Avenue SE on Thursday. Police say they have responded to 17 weather-related collisions since Wednesday morning.--NEWS PHOTO BRENDAN MILLER
bmiller@medicinehatnews.com
Medicine Hat police are reminding motorists to adjust their driving for the current weather conditions after 17 weather related collisions had been reported to police since Wednesday morning.
Police say roads, especially those that aren’t frequently travelled and on slopes, are currently very slippery and are asking drivers to slow down and drive with caution.
“When we get snow on the roads you have to adjust your driving for the conditions,” says Const. David Smith with the traffic unit. “Slow down, leave more space between you and the vehicle in front, just in case there is that instance where the vehicle in front stops, that way you have time to react and put on display that defensive driving.”
Police say under heavy snowfall conditions it’s important motorists take time to brush off their windows and lamps and turn on daytime running lights to improve visibility on roads.
“For example, if you have a white vehicle in this whether and their daytime running lights are functioning, you’re gonna see the lights,” explains Smith. “If the daytime running lights aren’t functioning you may not see that vehicle right away because all you’re seeing is a white vehicle in the background of white snow.”
Due to the city’s geography, many drivers in Medicine Hat also have to contend with steep hills. Police suggest taking the extra time to find a level route if you don’t feel comfortable driving up and down slopes.
“Personally I end up avoiding the hill areas in my personal vehicle,” says Smith. “I’ll take areas that aren’t too steep just in case the sanding trucks aren’t out in time, and that way it’s just less stress and I don’t have to worry about it.”
Redcliff RCMP say they had responded to five collisions on area highways since Wednesday morning.
RCMP say highway conditions are not favourable and would like to remind motorists to give plows on the highway enough space to work safely and plan for a longer trip.
“With the snow still falling, just give yourself time.” says Corp. David Micklefield. “The plows are out there doing what they can. But just keep in mind it’s probably going to take you a little bit longer to get to where you need to get to and people might be driving a bit slower, which is a good thing.”
Environment Canada is expected to lift the snowfall warning this afternoon, however the city is forecasted to receive periods of snow throughout the weekend.
