Winter Storm: Hundreds of Crashes, Nearly 1,000 Calls to State Police

Virginia State troopers have been busy on the roads dealing with crashes and disabled vehicles.

Since midnight Monday and through 10:30 a.m., troopers have responded to more than 300 traffic accidents, and 156 disabled vehicles, according to spokeswoman Corrine Geller. 

Since midnight, state police dispatch centers have fielded close to 1,000 total calls for service. The majority of crashes involve damage to vehicles and no injuries. There have been no weather-related traffic deaths.

As of 11:15 a.m., Virginia State Police have 104 pending traffic crashes.

Regional Breakdown for Crash Stats:

Richmond Division: 151 traffic crashes, 22 disabled vehicles out of 230 total calls for service

Culpeper Division: 85 traffic crashes, 37 disabled vehicles out of 195 total calls for service

Appomattox Division: No figures available.

Wytheville Division: 11 traffic crashes, 20 disabled vehicles out of 119 total calls for service

Chesapeake Division: 8 traffic crashes, 18 disabled vehicles out of 144 total calls for service

Salem Division: 12 traffic crashes, 18 disabled vehicles out of 105 total calls for service

Fairfax Division: 65 traffic crashes, 41 disabled vehicles out of 200 total calls for service

From the Virginia State Police:

Motorists are still advised to stay off the roads as the storm continues to move across the Commonwealth. However, if you do have to travel, then please heed the following traffic safety tips:

Driving Tips in Inclement Weather   

• State law requires headlights to be on when windshield wipers are in active use
• Completely clear all windows and head/taillights of snow/ice before traveling
• Add extra time to reach travel destination
• Slow your speed for road conditions
• Increase driving distances between vehicles for increased stopping distance
• Do not tailgate snow plows or sand trucks
• Always Buckle up and ensure your passengers are buckled up as well
• Do not drive distracted
• If your vehicle begins to hydroplane steer your vehicle in the direction you want your vehicle to go
• Brake and accelerate lightly
• Plan ahead before you travel by calling 511 for road conditions or click onhttp://www.511virginia.org – Do not call 911 or #77, as these are for emergency calls only.
• Have a charged cell phone and extra blankets, water, snacks in case your vehicle becomes disabled
•  Know your location to give to an emergency dispatcher to include the direction of travel in case you need emergency response. Use exit numbers or mile markers when on the interstate as points of reference (For example, Interstate 95 northbound at the 80 mile marker.)