Spokane residents are used to driving on snow but navigating on ice is a completely different story; it is discouraged, dangerous, and in many cases, impossible. Current warnings tell potential travelers to pack light, blankets, food, and water. This is because if you get in a wreck, you may be waiting a long time for help.
Advisory issued
Just after the freezing rain advisory ended on January 17, 2017, the National Weather Service in Spokane issued an Ice Storm Warning, which is in effect until 10AM Wednesday, January 18, 2017.
Part of the advisory reads:
HEAVY PRECIPITATION OVERRUNNING A COLD LOW LEVEL AIR MASS ARRIVES THIS EVENING AND CONTINUES INTO WEDNESDAY BRINGING THE POTENTIAL FOR HOURS OF FREEZING RAIN… SLEET…AND SNOW. HEAVY MOUNTAIN SNOW IS A NEAR CERTAINTY. HEAVY ICE ACCUMULATIONS WILL BE LIKELY ACROSS THE COLUMBIA BASIN…SPOKANE AREA…AND COEUR D`ALENE AREA…AND LOCALLY IN THE NORTHERN MOUNTAINS. LIGHT ICE ACCUMULATIONS ARE EXPECTED OVER PORTIONS OF SE WASHINGTON AND THE SOUTH IDAHO PANHANDLE.
#Spokane now included in Ice Storm Warning. Freezing rain advisory also issued for #Lewiston area. #wawx #idwx pic.twitter.com/HUJRmHJLgD
— NWS Spokane (@NWSSpokane) January 18, 2017
Car accidents in inclement weather
Speed is often a contributing factor in Spokane car accidents which occur on icy roads. Drivers should adjust their driving according to the current weather conditions. This may mean going 10mph on a 25mph road if that what it takes to maintain control of a vehicle.
If you are injured because of someone’s negligence during winter weather, the driver who disregarded other motorist’s safety can be held accountable.