PASCO, WA – Pasco Police Officer Alejandro Michel urges Tri-Citians to be careful while driving after this winter storm.
“A crash that happened in Spokane – that was actually my good friend’s daughter.” said Officer Michel. “She must have hit a patch of ice and spun out and then the semi rolled on top of her.”
It was this fatal accident that took the young woman away from her family and fiancé who she was set to marry this February.
“It’s just a sad reminder that we all really need to be safe. These conditions are incredibly dangerous and anything can happen in an instant.” said Michel.
Michel said the best things you can do is drive very slowly, giving plenty of space between you and other cars, and making sure you brake slowly as well.
“Otherwise you could skid on the ice.” said Michel.
Michel also stated that it’s important to check your tires, because the cold can actually cause their pressure to be affected. Additionally, make sure you are driving in good visibility – that means to make sure your windows are cleared form snow (by defrosting and scraping the snow off the glass) or avoiding the roads if snowfall is too heavy.
“Nothing is worth your life.” said Michel.
Michel also urges people to give themselves at least an hour more of travel time so they’re not rushing and giving themselves plenty of time to defrost their car.
Call 911 if you are injured or blocking traffic during a car accident. If you get into an accident and are no injured nor blocking traffic call non-emergency dispatch at 509-628-0333 in Tri-Cities.
