Several Eugene drivers had a tough time with Monday morning’s icy conditions, resulting from an unexpected snow siege the day before.
Because Eugene hasn’t seen this much snowfall “in a very long time,” said National Weather Service spokeswoman Tiffani Brown, most residents aren’t accustomed to driving on icy roads. On Sunday, nine car crashes were reported to Eugene Police, said spokeswoman Melinda Kletzok, compared with the “four or five” that occurred the Sunday before. As such, said Kletzok, there are several precautions drivers should take before they pull out of the driveway.
First, “make sure you have visibility,” Kletzok said. “Warm the car up so you can see out the windows. Make sure your lights are working. If it’s really icy, consider chains.”
If you’re taking a long trip or traveling far away, also consider stocking up on emergency items and notifying someone of your travel plans and when you’ll return.
Kletzok said it’s also a good idea to get a road report from the radio or a Web site like the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Web site tripcheck.com as a way to navigate around closed roads.
When you’re on the road, “drive like you don’t have brakes,” said Kletzok, “even if you’ve got a four-wheel drive or chains.”
According to the National Weather Service, there is little chance for additional snow accumulation today. A rain/snow mix was expected for Monday night, and today’s forecast calls for rain and a high temperature of 39 degrees. Snow showers are predicted for tonight.
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