FARGO, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Highway Patrol was busy Wednesday from 6 AM to 6 PM in the Eastern part of the state.
According to Captain Bryan Niewind, the southeast region investigated 20 crashes that occurred on I-29 and I-94 in Cass, Barnes, and Stutsman Counties. 16 of those crashes occurred in Cass County.
“Luckily, only two of the crashes involved minor injuries,” Captain Niewind stated.
In addition to the crashes, troopers responded to 21 motorist assists where individuals had spun out of control into the median or ditch and required the assistance of a wrecker service.
“Ten abandoned vehicles were located during this time period as well, stuck off the road unoccupied.”
The North Dakota Highway Patrol is reminding residents that during inclement weather, there are several rules to abide by.
-Increase your following distances. Give yourself extra space to react to the changing road and traffic conditions.
-Slow down, give yourself extra time to get to where you are going. Most crashes during winter events occur because individuals are traveling too fast for conditions or following too close.
-Get rid of all distractions while driving. Focus on your driving and the other traffic around. Be a defensive driver and put your phones down. No text or phone call is worth your life.
-Turn off your cruise control.
-Place your vehicle in 4×4 mode if possible.
-Turn on your headlights so other traffic can see you in low visibility conditions.
-Always wear your seat belt.