Massachusetts Crash Fatality Facts

• 430 people died in Massachusetts crashes in 2006
• 53% were not wearing seatbelts
• 40% (174) were alcohol related
• 34% (148) were speed related
• 21% (91) occurred at intersections
• 14% (61) were pedestrians
• 12% (50) were motorcycle riders
• 1% (6) were bicycle riders

Driving in Snow and Ice

1. Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning- nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Following by a distance of two to three seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.
2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
3. Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try using low gears to keep traction.
4. Keep your gas tank at least half full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay. It also, avoids gas line freeze-up.
5. Allow enough time. Trips can take longer during winter than other times of the year, especially if you encounter snow or ice conditions. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
6. Make certain your tires are properly inflated and never mix radial tires with other tire types.
7. Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface (wet, ice, sand).
8. If you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.
9. Don’t pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility and your are likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
10. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.