Dozens of accidents reported during Nova Scotia storm
RCMP say some vehicles not prepared for winter driving
Freezing temperatures combined with Monday's snow and ice caused traffic headaches well into Tuesday morning on many routes in the Halifax area.
Halifax RCMP Cpl. Dal Hutchinson said RCMP officers responded to 40 collisions in the Halifax region on Monday, and some involved vehicles that didn't have snow tires. Halifax Regional Police were called to 23 collisions between 6 a.m. Monday and 10 a.m. Tuesday.
During Tuesday morning's commute, at least eight vehicles lost control on Highway 103 between Exit 3 and Exit 2 inbound.
RCMP Cpl. Jennifer Clarke said RCMP received reports of more than 50 collisions across the province on Monday, excluding the Halifax region.
"In conditions like the ones we had yesterday, if your vehicle is not prepared for winter driving conditions, you really shouldn't be out in conditions like we had yesterday," she said.
"There were a lot of collisions yesterday that were avoidable."
Hutchinson said drivers should take this opportunity to prepare before the next big storm. Here are a few tips:
- Before heading out, check current road and weather conditions
- Make sure snow tires are in good condition
- Top up wiper fluid and make sure windshield wipers are in good working order
- Clear snow completely off your vehicle
- Make sure your headlights are on
- Slow down when roads are slippery
- Give yourself enough time to stop by leaving enough space between you and the vehicle ahead
