After Recent Crashes, WSDOT Shares Winter Driving Reminders

SNOQUALMIE PASS, WA — The Washington State Department of Transportation has a few reminders for winter driving following several crashes and lengthy closures over Snoqualmie Pass in recent weeks.

In a blog post, WSDOT outlined some of the challenges transportation crews face in keeping mountain passes open during snow events after dozens of vehicles spun out and prompted a 7-hour closure earlier in the month.

As seen year after year, WSDOT said most closures are not due to weather alone and often become necessary due to unprepared drivers and those that fail to follow legal requirements for traction tires or chains.

"We see all kinds of vehicles struggle going over the pass, from smaller passenger cars up to semi-trucks," officials wrote. "It only takes one driver ignoring the traction requirements to create a domino effect of spun-out vehicles blocking an entire stretch of I-90, prompting a closure to get things cleared out of the way."

While WSDOT partners with Washington State Patrol during storms to patrol for drivers failing to follow posted requirements, with 20,000 vehicles traveling over the pass each day, full enforcement can prove challenging. If a serious crash occurs, closures can often stretch on due to limited tow truck availability, debris removal and other cleanup efforts.

"If a vehicle is leaking fuel or other chemicals, the Department of Ecology is called in to clean up," officials said. "Finally, WSP needs time to investigate the collision scene before our crews can finally start removing any snow that's accumulated in the area during the closure."

To help prevent mishaps over the remaining winter months, WSDOT recommends all drivers take the following steps before heading out:

• Carry chains and know how to install them. All vehicles – yes, even all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive – are required to carry chains or an approved alternative. When chains are required, it is vital that drivers chain up – that's how we keep the pass open to traffic instead of having more closures. Learning how to put chains on in the middle of a storm is never ideal. Practice at home beforehand.
• Have good tires. All-weather or snow tires are incredibly important to have this time of year, especially if you're traveling through a mountain pass. While 4WD and AWD don't require chains during most "chains required notices" they DO need to have appropriate traction tires.
• Stay informed. It's even more important to check weather and conditions before you leave and during travel – never check from behind the wheel. Use our travel alerts and many tools and social media accounts and the 511 phone system to keep informed of conditions and any possible closures or alerts. Our app also has all the info you will need to stay in the know.
• Be prepared for delays and closures, including having extra masks and hand sanitizer. As this past weekend showed, closures can come with little warning and be in place for quite a while. Be prepared for unexpected delays and possibly needing to make unplanned stops or getting assistance such as towing. You'll want to be sure to stay safe in these interactions.
• Expect less than ideal conditions. Drive assuming snow and ice conditions. Even when it appears wet, it might be black ice or slush. Reduce speeds and leave more space between vehicles.
• Consider altering travel plans during heavy storms. If you're unsure about your winter driving ability or your vehicle's equipment, there's no shame in delaying or altering your travel plans.