State Police Respond To Nearly 2 Dozen Crashes Tuesday Afternoon

Tuesday's afternoon snowfall has caused slippery road conditions across the state, leading to an increased number of crashes and disabled vehicles.

The Rhode Island State POlice reported that troopers responded to 23 crashes between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and assisted six disabled vehicles.

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation's official Twitter account has reported over a dozen crashes and disabled vehicles statewide.

Crash, Left Shoulder blocked on I-95 NB at Exit 10 (RI-117 - Warwick/West Warwick) in Warwick
— RIDOT (@RIDOTNews) February" class="redactor-linkify-object">https://twitter.com/RIDOTNews/... 12, 2019

With snow expected to continue for several hours beforing turning into freezing rain in the evening hours, officials are encouraging drivers to use caution when heading home.

When driving in snowy or icy conditions, AAA Northeast says taking it slow is most important. In addition, drivers should remember to do the following:

• Always fully clear snow and ice off your vehicle before driving: it's the law in Rhode Island.
• Drive with headlights on. Remember: if your wipers are on, your headlights must be, too.
• Keep extra space between your car and the vehicle in front of you to allow for extra response time.
• If you begin to skid, turn the wheel in the direction you want your vehicle to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.
• Fully charge your cell phone before heading out.
• Don't crowd the plows: avoid driving too close to plows and sanding trucks

Many cities and towns have parking bans in place until Wednesday.

Snow, sleet and freezing rain could create slippery travel conditions with limited visibility later today and tonight. Remember:
* Clear snow and ice from your car before driving
* Buckle up
* Use your headlights
* Slow down
* Stay alert and use caution
* Don't crowd the plows! pic.twitter.com/6nsClte8fL
— RI State Police (@RIStatePolice) February" class="redactor-linkify-object">https://twitter.com/RIStatePol... 12, 2019

Driving one of these is a hard job and takes a lot of concentration. As the afternoon commute begins in an hour or so, please give plow operators plenty of room to work. #DontCrowdThePlow pic.twitter.com/Dfg792EetV
— Smithfield EMA (@SmfldEM) February" class="redactor-linkify-object">https://twitter.com/SmfldEM/st... 12, 2019

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