Slick roads pose hazards

Ice and snow are hazards that Northern Nevada motorists will have to navigate this winter.

In 2007, Nevada saw four deaths and 778 vehicle crashes statewide attributable to unsafe driving behaviors in snow and ice, such as driving too fast for conditions, following too closely, or failing to maintain a lane and overcorrecting, according to Nevada Department of Transportation Director Susan Martinovich.

"Alongside our local government partners, the Nevada Department of Transportation is dedicated to safely clearing this ice and snow, with over 71,000 NDOT person hours spent last year removing snow on Reno, Tahoe, Carson City, and Fallon-area state roads," Martinovich said. "As we clear the roads, your fellow drivers depend on you to help keep those roads safe."

Martinovich said many of the accidents caused by weather can be prevented by checking road and weather conditions before leaving the house and following some simple tips.

"Just as you rely on us to clear the roads, your fellow drivers rely on you to drive safely on those same winter roads," she said.

Leave plenty of time to get to where you're going

Be sure to remove snow and ice from your windshield, rear window, side windows and mirrors, and be sure your taillights and license plate are visible

Adjust your vehicle speed to the current weather conditions

Keep a safe following distance with other motorists

Always buckle up

If you are stranded, or if you are installing or removing traction devices, park as far away from the travel lanes as possible to avoid being struck

Be on the lookout for responding emergency vehicles and always move to right and yield

When you see a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights on, reduce your vehicle speed and move over into an adjacent lane when possible