By Kyler Johnson/ GG Editor-in-Chief
Winter weather wreaks havoc every year across Nebraska causing accidents and delays. When significant winter weather is impacting the area, it’s best just to stay inside, so you don’t risk your life or the lives of others.
On Jan. 15 through the 16th, Winter Storm Jupiter brought ice to the region leading to many business closures on Monday and even school closures on Tuesday.
According to Public Safety Director, Tom Casady there were only 16 crashes in Lincoln on Monday, which is comparable to a Monday in July.
The last time Lincoln saw minor icing was back on Dec. 16, 2016, there wasn’t much of a notice to alert the public of the icy conditions. There were more than 50 crashes reported on that day. So, if a winter storm is in the forecast, it’s best to stay home, but if when you must travel out, there are some preparedness tips and driving tips that you should know.
This winter has been different, we haven’t seen much in terms of winter weather, and in February, we had one of the lowest monthly snowfalls ever recorded. Tasneem Ali (12) said, “I’m fine that it’s been dry, because I don’t like driving when the roads are slick or if it’s snowy outside.” That statement isn’t much different when compared to Callie Hall (12) who said, “I don’t like winter at all, so I have no complaints!”
- Leave Early – If you must travel for a long or even short distance, it’s best to leave early that way you do not rush yourself and risk getting into an accident.
- Keep Your Gas Tank Full – According to AAA, you should leave at least half a tank of gas in your car in case you get stranded or get delayed in traffic.
- Put Your Phone Away – It might be tempting to send a quick text, but taking your eyes off the road for even a short distance can risk your life and the life of others.
- Drive Slow – It’s pretty obvious that you should slow down during adverse weather conditions, but some people forget. Also, make sure that you go slow when you’re turning corners and coming to a stop.
- Keep Your Distance – When driving leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles that way you have plenty of time to slow down and stop instead of running into another vehicle.
For a complete list of winter driving tips you can head on over to AAA’s website and click on the “safety” tab.
