ISP Offers Advice for Motorists in Advance of Winter Storm
Iowa State Patrol Squad Car
Des Moines, IOWA — As nearly a foot of snow and sleet are beginning to fall upon Iowa roadways, the Iowa State Patrol (ISP) is gearing up to handle incidents of all types on our interstates and highways. Troopers ask that motorists do the same and prepare for the worst.
Remember to always check www.511ia.org before traveling when inclement weather is expected. This cooperative website is populated by Troopers and DOT personnel, and will indicate which roadways are travelable. If you must travel, abide by these simple rules:
- Never speed
- Increase your following distance
- Store an emergency kit in your car with food, blankets and a fully charged phone.
- Keep your car well-maintained with properly inflated tires and a full tank of gas
If you’re involved in a crash during this winter storm the first thing you should do is stay calm. Then, take a few moments to assess the situation: determine where you are, if anyone is hurt, and if your vehicle is still drivable. Turn on your vehicle’s flashers and if necessary, move the vehicle off the traveled portion of the roadway. This is critical when road conditions are slick, as it may prevent a secondary collision. Whenever possible, remain in your vehicle. Cold temps and low visibility can make you disoriented. You don’t want to get lost in a storm or hit by a passing motorist who can’t see you or the road very well. If your vehicle is not drivable, call 911 or 1-800-525-5555 immediately to request an officer escort you to safety.
Very often during inclement weather, Troopers will not be able to complete a crash report for you, as they need to move on and assist other motorists. After the storm has passed, if you need a crash report completed, please contact the ISP office nearest where you collision occurred. Click here to view a list of ISP District Offices.
