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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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