Winter Weather Driving Advisories

STATEWIDE – The West Virginia State Police would like to remind drivers of a few issues when traveling in the State during the winter weather months.

1. When roadway conditions are hazardous (rain, snow, wet leaves, etc.) make sure to allow ample stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

2. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Being late tends to cause panic and careless driving.

3. A “survival kit” in your vehicle may become a necessity if you are ever stranded in your vehicle. The kit should include items such as: blankets, water, portable radio, hand/feet warmers, cellular phone, glow sticks or flares, etc.

Vehicles often become stranded on the roadways due to mechanical failure; therefore, the State Police would like to inform the motoring public of their responsibilities when dealing with stranded vehicles.

· Make use of the *SP (*77) function on your cellular phone. This function can be used on any cellular phone and is free of charge. By dialing *SP, drivers can report stranded motorists to the State Police. This function can also be used to report dangerous drivers as well.

· According to law passed in 2002 (WV Code §17C-14-9a), drivers in the right lane approaching emergency vehicles parked in the emergency lane of a four lane road are required to change lanes and proceed past the emergency vehicle in the left lane. If the lane change is not possible, drivers must reduce their speed not to exceed fifteen miles per hour on any non-divided highway or street and twenty-five miles per hour on any divided highway depending on road conditions.

Driving during the winter can be dangerous, but many crashes can be prevented if drivers pay attention to the roadways, drive cautiously during hazardous conditions and use common sense.

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