Dozens of accidents on slick and snow-covered local roads are keeping York Regional Police busy this evening.
Heavy snow that began today and is expected to continue tonight and into Thursday, Feb. 27 has prompted a warning from the local force: “Don’t go out if you don’t need to!”
“Please be patient as we are doing our best to attend as quickly as possible,” York police said in a social media post. “Let's be safe out there tonight as the poor weather will continue throughout the night.”
Snowfall amounts of 15 to 25 cm are expected by Thursday morning, which may significantly impact rush hour traffic, Environment Canada said.
Be prepared to adjust your driving to changing road conditions.
OPP highway safety division Sgt. Kerry Schmidt offered some tips of his own Wednesday evening as the rush hour commute began.
Schmidt said the crashes that have happened so far today have been because vehicles are going too fast.
“I don’t know what we’re going to have when we wake up in the morning, but it could certainly be a mess and affect your driving into the office,” Schmidt said. “Set your alarm clock earlier to clear your vehicle off of snow. If you don’t have to drive, you may want to work from home.”
“The less traffic we have on the roads, the easier it is for the plows to get the highways plowed, cleared and salted,” he said.
York police say most of the collisions related to winter driving are avoidable.
Here are some tips to keep in mind before heading out:
- Always check the weather and travel conditions before heading out and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination
- Slow down, drive according to the weather conditions and ensure you have enough time and gas in your tank to get you to your destination
- Top up your windshield washer fluid and clear the snow and ice completely from your vehicle
- Always wear your seatbelt
- Avoid distractions
- Leave a large space between your vehicles and those in front or around you
- Plan for longer times and distances when braking at a stop sign or at intersection
Call the police immediately if the collision involves any of the following:
- Someone who is hurt or in danger
- A driver you suspect has committed a crime, such as impaired driving
- A pedestrian or cyclist
- An uncooperative driver
- Damage to private property
- A government vehicle or a vehicle that is transporting dangerous goods
If you are involved in a collision, remember to stay calm, York police say.
Call 9-1-1 immediately if anyone is hurt or in danger. Remain at the scene and ensure your vehicle is in a safe location. You may need to move your vehicle off the road to ensure your safety and that of other motorists. If you are able to do so safely, check on the well-being of anyone else involved.
If the combined damage to vehicles is believed to be less than $2,000 and none of the above circumstances exist, you do not require a police report.
Exchange drivers' licenses, ownership and insurance information with any other drivers involved and report the accident directly to your insurance company.
For more information on reporting collisions, visit here.
