Captain Jason Berry
Government and Media Relations
(360) 596-4010 – office
(360) 596-4015 – fax
http://www.wsp.wa.gov
*** For Immediate Release***
Date:
November 3, 2011
Contact:
Lieutenant Kandi Patrick
Phone:
(509) 682-8103
E-mail:
Kandi.Patrick@WSP.WA.GOV
Winter Is Upon Us – Slow Down and Move Over
Wenatchee -- Washington State Patrol (WSP) Captain Karen DeWitt reminds motorists to slow down and increase following distance during adverse road conditions. As we enter our winter months with snow and ice we also enter the time of year that emergency workers are struck while performing their duties in emergency zones.
We urge you to keep a watchful eye out for our emergency workers and give them space to perform their duties while they are in the emergency zone. As a reminder an emergency zone is defined as the adjacent lanes of the roadway 200 feet (10 car lengths) before and after a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights, a tow truck using red lights, an emergency assistance vehicle using warning lights, or any police vehicle using emergency lights. The fine doubles for vehicles exceeding the speed limit in an emergency zone.
With the first snow on the ground the WSP reminds you to adjust your speed for all weather conditions. Remember to accelerate slowly, brake early and do not panic and overcorrect by jerking the steering wheel. Keep in mind that the responsibility of controlling your vehicle is on your shoulders and your actions can prevent or cause a collision. Prior to traveling this winter, motorists can check road conditions by going to the Washington Department of Transportation web site at www.wsdot.wa.gov or by calling 511.