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MHP troopers in five crashes last month |
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January 6, 2018 |
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The Montana Highway Patrol says it's unfortunate
that they have to report that, within the last
month alone, five troopers have been involved in
crashes through no fault of their own. In each
of these cases, drivers were not driving
appropriately for conditions.
In some cases, troopers were in the vehicle when
it was struck. Thankfully, there were no serious
injuries.
When crashes like this occur, everyone should be
concerned, primarily for their own safety and
security and for everyone that they share the
roadway with.
Secondarily though, these senseless and
avoidable crashes cost the tax payers money as
thousands of dollars are being paid to repair,
or in some cases, completely replace these
vehicles.
They very deliberately use the word "crash" here
because the word "accident" implies an event
caused unexpectedly or by chance.
Crashing in winter conditions or sliding off the
road is not an unexpected outcome if:
1. You're driving too fast. Yes, driving the speed limit can be too fast
for certain weather conditions.
2. Your tires are bald or the tread is worn past legal limits.
3. You're following too closely.
4. You're voluntarily taking the risk and driving in extreme weather
conditions that emergency personnel have warned
you to avoid. (Not talking about people who find
themselves caught in a sudden storm or emergency
situations).
5. You drive impaired. Ever. At any time.
What you can do to be the change:
1. Slow down!
2. Keep your vehicle street legal and in good condition.
3. Increase your following distance.
4. Turn on your headlights in inclement weather.
5. Stay home if the roads are terrible and you don't need to drive.
6. Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles (or any vehicle on the
side of the road, really).
7. Buckle up!
When we all begin to take responsibility for the
enormous privilege of operating a motor vehicle
and hold ourselves and others to higher
standards, change is possible. |
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