Indiana State Police Troopers from the Lowell Post responded to various calls for service related to slippery road conditions. The busiest period was during afternoon rush hours. Troopers responded to thirty-four property damage crashes, three personal injury crashes (no serious injuries) and five slide-offs.

The main causation factor for a majority of the crashes was motorists traveling too fast on slick roads. When roads become wet or are covered with snow or ice motorists should reduce the speed of their vehicles.

The Indiana State Police offer the following safety tips:
• Make sure your travel is necessary, then check the forecast
• Assure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel
• Carry a winter driving kit that should include blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or cat litter), shovel, candle, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, first aid kit, and jumper cables.
• Have a cell phone and charger cord available.
• Slow down on snow/ice covered roads.
• Allow extra time to arrive at your destination.
• Clear all vehicle windows of ice and snow.
• Use extra caution when driving across bridges, underpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt.
• Avoid abrupt stops and starts. Slow down gradually.

If you become stranded:
• Don’t leave your car. It’s the best protection you have.
• Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna.
• Roll down your window a small amount to allow fresh air in your vehicle.
• Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Don’t panic.  An idling car uses approximately one gallon of gas per hour.

For road conditions motorists can call 1-800-261-7623 or www.trafficwise.in.gov.