Winter weather has arrived in Northeast Wyoming, as evidenced by the handful of semi-truck accidents just on Interstate 90 between Sheridan and Buffalo Tuesday night. This weather can cause highway surfaces to be slick and unpredictable, and when you factor in poor visibility and blowing snow, driving can be dangerous. Sheridan Media's Chris Foy has more.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation says in a media release it's cautioning motorists as area roads are very wet and as freezing temperatures set in after dark the roads are left very slick.
WYDOT offers some tips for driving in areas that have ice or snow. Step one, turn off your cruise control and slow down. If you lose traction and you feel your vehicle is floating, gradually slow down. Don’t slam on the brakes.
Use special caution when driving on or across bridges because these surfaces are the first to freeze over. And when the temperature drops, at night for example, these roads can be especially slick. If you see a shaded area, slow down in advance - but again, don't slam on the brakes.
Always increase your following distance and don't tailgate. It creates a distraction for the person you're behind and its dangerous for all involved even when the roads are clear. Going with the flow of traffic is your safest bet, but give each driver space.
As a reminder, both during and after snowstorms, WYDOT crews will be plowing snow, sanding slick areas and attempting to keep state highways open to the traveling public. WYDOT says to be watchful for the flashing lights of the plows and remember to slow down.