The City of Spokane recently announced the beginning of the snow season. To prepare for driving in the snow this year, the following will review some important details about the city's snow response plans as well as some safety suggestions about how to safely drive while in the snow.

Spokane's Snow Response Plan

The City of Spokane's snow plans includes the following actions:

• If there is only an inch or two of snow, crews will plow the streets. 
• During snowfalls of four or more inches, crews will work around the clock to plow the streets.
• The Street Department plans on using equipment that allows drivers to avoid placing snow across driveways or alley access.
• Citizens must park on the odd side of the street in residential areas during the snow season.
• Property owners are responsible for clearing the sidewalk adjacent to their properties.
• Neighbors are asked to help if someone is not capable of shoveling. 

How to Stay Safe While Driving This Winter

There are some quick and easy strategies that all drivers in Spokane should implement this winter to stay safe. These strategies include:

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Avoid moving a vehicle in a hurry. Instead, take plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Creating a safety kit. Keep a kit inside of your vehicle that includes things like a blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, phone charger, food, or water. 
• Keeping a safe distance. The normal following distance when roads are dry is three to four seconds, but drivers should increase this distance to eight to 10 seconds during the winter. This way, you will be safe in case another vehicle on the road stops suddenly.
• Keeping your foot on the brake. Maintain steady pressure on your brake pedal. The best way to stop is by applying the brakes firmly to a point shortly before the wheels lock up then easing off the pedal slightly.
• Maintaining a clear view of the road at all times. While this can be difficult to do, it is vital for your safety. 
• Maintaining your vehicle. This includes keeping fluid and pressure levels in good condition. The battery should also be kept in proper working order.
• Monitoring heating and cooling systems. Make sure that your vehicle's heating and cooling systems are working properly so you can defog the windshield. You should also ensure that a vehicle's wiper fluid reservoir is filled and that the wiper blades are in good condition. 
• Monitoring headlights. Keep your vehicle's headlights in good working order. If your vehicle is equipped with fog lights, you should also make sure that these are working properly. 
• Not stopping. Keeping your tires rolling and avoid making complete stops whenever you can safely stop. This means not stopping while going up a hill.

Speak with an Experienced Spokane Accident

No matter what safety suggestions you follow, accidents are still likely to occur this winter. If you or a loved one is injured in an accident and another party is responsible, do not hesitate to contact West Law Office to schedule a free case evaluation.