Virginia State Police continue to urge drivers to avoid roads during wintry weather

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia State Police continue to remind drivers to stay off of the roads during wintry weather, as 500 crashes have occurred throughout the state since the winter storm began.

As of 5 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, police said there have been 500 crashes throughout the state since the beginning of the winter storm. Forty-five crashes involved injuries, according to officials.

This is an increase from 450 crashes that were reported in the Commonwealth from midnight to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19.

Throughout Division 1, which includes Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights and the counties of Amelia, Caroline, Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Essex, Goochland, Henrico, King and Queen, King William, Lancaster, Louisa, New Kent, Northumberland, Nottoway, Prince George, Powhatan, Richmond and Westmoreland, there have been 66 crashes with six reported to have injuries. 

Police said there have been no deadly crashes during the winter storm.

Drivers are urged to stay off the roads if possible, but for those who must travel, Virginia State Police recommend taking the following steps:

• Use headlights. Increasing your visibility helps you to avoid slick and dangerous spots on the road, as well as helps other drivers see you better. 
• Slow your speed, as it gives you more time to safely react and avoid a crash. Drive your vehicle based on your ability to properly maintain control of your vehicle. 
• Don’t tailgate. You need increased stopping distance on slick road surfaces. Give yourself more space between vehicles traveling ahead of you to avoid rear end collisions. 
• Buckle up. Most crashes that occur during winter weather are caused by vehicles sliding into guardrails, off the road or other vehicles. Wearing your seat belt protects you from being thrown around the inside of your vehicle and suffering serious injury in a crash. 
• Check your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order for the conditions. Fill up the tank in advance. Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid, tire tread, battery life, etc. 
• Don’t leave home without a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snack, cell phone charger and flashlight.