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Virginia State Police asking drivers to be patient on roadways

Posted at 3:08 PM, Jan 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-24 19:44:36-05

RICHMOND, Va. –The sun is finally out in Central Virginia, but Virginia State Police is still asking for drivers to be patient on the roadways and in unnecessary travel.

While the sun is helping some snow melt, many roads, especially secondary and rural roads have not been plowed and are slick. The significant accumulation has also caused snow drifts of up to 20 inches in some areas.

As of 1:30 p.m. Sunday, VSP have been on the scene of 16 crashes and 12 disabled vehicles in the state.

During the storm Virginia State Police have responded to a total 6,883 calls for service, with 1,427 traffic crashes and another 2,122 disabled vehicles across the state.

There have been five confirmed storm-related deaths in Virginia.

State Police has also issued warning for pedestrians walking in the snow.

“We appreciate folks not driving, but walking can also be very dangerous as people are forced to walk actually in the roads. If you DO have to walk, then please wear bright, reflective clothing…walk against traffic so you can see any oncoming vehicles…and do not walk distracted (no texting or earbuds). Also, be sure you dress for the temperatures to avoid frostbite.”

For the latest in road conditions and road closures, please call 511 or go to http://www.511virginia.org and not 911 or #77.

If you do travel today, State Police said take the following safety precautions:

  • Clear off ALL snow and ice from your vehicle – windows, roof, trunk and lights
  • Add extra time to reach travel destination
  • Slow speed for road conditions
  • Increase driving distances between vehicles for increased stopping distance
  • Buckle up and don’t drive distracted
  • MOVE OVER for all stopped emergency vehicles, highway vehicles and tow trucks.
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