Media Release - Ohio State Highway Patrol

For Immediate Release: December 19, 2003
Contact: Lt. Tony Bradshaw (614) 752-2792

Patrol releases dramatic crash video
Troopers remind motorists of safe winter driving tips

COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is releasing in-car video of a crash that occurred last Friday on northbound State Route 57 near the Interstate 90 interchange in Elyria, an area with a high occurrence of crashes this year.

According to troopers, a 1998 Ford Escort, followed by a 1992 Ford Tempo, followed by a 1994 Chevrolet Camaro, traveling in the left lane of northbound State Route 57 were involved in a crash at 5:29 p.m. last Friday. The Escort and Tempo stopped for slowed traffic and the Camaro struck the Tempo, causing it to hit the Escort. The Tempo then went airborne and landed on the Camaro.

Troopers hope viewing this crash will remind motorists to drive safely, especially in winter weather, because winter driving skills are used only a few months each year.

"Safety should always be your number one priority when traveling in a motor vehicle," Col. Paul D. McClellan, Patrol superintendent said. "During winter weather, increased attention to safe driving techniques is critical. The Patrol has a few tips for drivers to help keep Ohio roadways safe in the winter months to come."

The Patrol's winter driving tips include:

Greater following distances and slower speeds are important in winter weather because icy roadways can triple stopping distances. On ice or snow-covered roads, be sure to accelerate slowly to prevent traction loss.
Ice on the roads may not always be visible. If your vehicle begins to skid on ice, resist the temptation to hit the brakes. Instead, take your foot off the gas pedal and steer into the direction of the skid.
Always wear a safety belt to reduce the risk of a serious injury or death in a crash.
Keep a winter car kit in your vehicle including: jumper cables; flares or roadway reflectors; flashlight and extra batteries; windshield washer fluid; small shovel; ice scraper; antifreeze; instant tire inflater; blanket; non-perishable foods; candle; matches; "help" sign; and a first-aid kit.
To avoid breakdowns, follow your vehicle manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule and ensure the brakes and transmission are working properly. Regularly check the wipers, tires, lights, fluid levels and apply lock lubricant to prevent freezing.
Check the Patrol's toll-free road and weather conditions hotline at 1-888-2OH-ROAD (1-888-264-7623) for current travel conditions for major routes and all Ohio counties.

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Note to editors/producers: For copies of the in-car video, contact the Patrol’s Public Affairs Unit at (614) 752-2792.

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www.statepatrol.ohio.gov A division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety

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Ohio State Highway Patrol Media Release

Patrol releases dramatic crash video Troopers remind motorists of safe winter driving tips

Ohio State Highway Patrol
Media Release

Patrol releases dramatic crash video
Troopers remind motorists of safe winter driving tips