Virginia State Police report 141 crashes during winter storm

Virginia State Police report 141 crashes during winter storm(WFXR)- The Virginia State Police is encouraging drivers to check road conditions before traveling during the winter storm.Since midnight, Friday, December 5, the VSP reports 141 vehicle crashes statewide, with 20 injuries, and zero fatalities. The numbers include only crashes being investigated by VSP.Drivers are asked to watch for transportation crews working to clear the roads. Check 511 Virginia for the latest updates on road conditions. Pinpoint Weather: Snow impacts continue today The VSP offers the following tips to stay safe behind the wheel during winter weather:Use headlights. Increasing your visibility helps you to avoid slick and dangerous spots on the road, as well as helps other drivers see you better.Please clear all of the snow off of your vehicle. This prevents snow from blowing back onto your vehicle and limiting your vision, or coming off of your vehicle and impacting other drivers’ vision.Slow your speed. Though state police works closely with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to identify problem areas on Virginia’s highways during a winter storm, drivers still must drive for conditions. Slowing your speed gives you more time to safely react and avoid a crash. Drive your vehicle based on your ability to properly maintain control of your vehicle.Don’t tailgate. You need increased stopping distance on slick road surfaces. Give yourself more space between vehicles traveling ahead of you to avoid rear end collisions.Buckle Up. Most crashes that occur during winter weather are caused by vehicles sliding into guardrails, off the road or other vehicles. Wearing your seat belt protects you from being thrown around the inside of your vehicle and suffering serious injury in a crash.Check Your Vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order for the conditions. Fill up the tank in advance. Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid, tire tread, battery life, etc.Don’t leave home without a window scraper, blanket, bottled water, snack, cell phone charger and flashlight. Share your wintry photos with WFXR Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.