Last year, 3 were killed on roads during holiday season

As another round of storms dump snow on Minnesota roads, the State Patrol released a few tips and statistics about holiday driving.

Last year, three people were killed on Minnesota roads surrounding the Christmas travel period (Wednesday through Sunday), in 2007, 11 people were killed in crashes, according to Trooper Kathy Peterson of the State Patrol.

This year in particular, the Christmas holiday will be accompanied by enhanced, statewide DWI patrols that run throughout December.
Peterson offered the reminder that motorists should stay tuned to weather forecasts and, if traveling for the holiday, consider leaving early to avoid traveling in severe weather conditions.
For road conditions, construction and travel information, visit www.511mn.org or call 511.
Minnesotans should also consider finalizing last-minute holiday needs, and pick up household items such as food and other necessities before the storm.
As usual, if conditions become too severe, Minnesotans will be encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel.
The Minnesota State Patrol recommends the following for safe winter driving:
• Always use seat belts
• Adjust speed to road and weather conditions — lower speeds minimize crashes.
• Keep a safe stopping distance between vehicles, and leave extra room between your vehicle and snow plows or other removal equipment.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly on icy/snow-covered roads to retrain traction and avoid skids.
• Bridges and overpasses can be more slippery than other parts of the road. If skidding, motorists should remain calm, ease foot off the gas and turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. If vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply a steady firm pressure to the brake pedal. Never pump ABS brakes. Do not use cruise control on snow/icy/wet roads.
• Do not use cruise-control.
• Do not “power up” hills which may cause wheels to spin. Build momentum before reaching a hill and don’t stop while traveling uphill. Reduce speed going downhill.
• Know your brakes — keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of the foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
• Give yourself plenty of travel time — don’t put your schedule before safety.
• Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and directional signals.
• Headlights must be turned on when it is snowing or sleeting.
If you have any questions regarding traffic safety and/or traffic laws, please email at kathy.pederson@state.mn.us. Sgt. Pederson will not offer advice on specific situations or real events, which involve law enforcement.