539 crashes reported statewide, VSP still urging drivers to stay off roads
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Wednesday's winter storm is still impacting the Central Virginia area on Thursday, and Virginia State Police (VSP) continue to urge drivers to stay off the roads with a reported 539 crashes statewide.
As of 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, there have been 539 crashes across the state -- 45 of them with reported injuries, according to VSP.
In VSP's Division 1, which covers the majority of Central Virginia, there have been 69 crashes, six of them with reported injuries.
State police confirmed there have been no deadly crashes in this storm.
If you must travel, drivers are reminded to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Use your headlights. Using headlights increases visibility to avoid slick or dangerous spots. Also, it gives other drivers the ability to see your vehicle.
- Drive slowly. Take your time. Slowing down allows more time to react and possibly avoid crashes. Drive according to your ability to manage your vehicle.
- Don’t tailgate vehicles. Maintain a safe stopping distance from cars while driving the slick roads. Allowing space between you and other vehicles can prevent rear-end crashes.
- Buckle your seatbelts. Wearing a seatbelt helps prevent serious injuries by keeping you secured in your seat. Majority of winter storm crashes are a result from vehicles that slide off the road, into guardrails or other people.
- Check out your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Fill the gas tank before hand, check the windshield wipers, tire tread, battery, etc.
- Prepare yourself. Have a windshield scraper, blanket, water bottles, snacks, cell phone, charger and flashlight
To get the latest updates on road conditions, call 511 or visit the Virginia Department of Transportation's website.
Virginians are advised to only call 911 or #77 on a cell phone in case of an emergency, as officials said it is necessary to keep the emergency communications dispatch lines open for individuals in serious need of police, fire and medical responses.
