State Rep. Warren Petryk

So far this year, or at least since I wrote this column, we haven't had any major snowstorms, but the smell of snow in western Wisconsin is only a forecast away. When the snow begins to fall, we abruptly switch to winter driving mode because we know that snow, ice, and roads do not mix well. In fact, over 15,000 crashes occurred during the winter months last year in Wisconsin, killing 38 people. So, now is the time to get ready for our first major snowstorm.

One of the first things we can do to prepare is recognize the flashing green and amber lights on our snowplows. Yes, Wisconsin law has allowed our municipal maintenance operators to use green flashing lights since April of last year. Snowplows and their drivers will be more visible to you with these new colors. This color contrast works because green flashing lights are the easiest to see from a distance during daylight, while yellow flashing lights are the easiest to see in the dark.

And our drivers work around the clock to keep Wisconsin's 115,000 miles of state and local highways clear of the various winter storm combinations that can hit the state during the winter months. Please keep your distance when you see a snowplow. In areas with posted speed limits of 35 mph or higher, you must maintain a 200-foot distance behind a snowplow. The majority of snowplow accidents occur when they are rear-ended or when someone is passing.

Wisconsin also updated its 511 road conditions program this year, which can be found at www.511wi.gov. You can get real-time updates along your route, such as current winter road conditions and traffic data. You can also view winter road conditions, live webcams of the road, and see how traffic is moving before leaving your house.

Finally, make sure your winter car kit is ready to go before you leave. This kit will help you prepare if you become stranded on the road due to inclement weather. Items to put in this kit include blankets, hats, and gloves to keep you warm. Consider including some water, snacks, and a spare cell phone charger. Finally, keep a bin of cat litter or sand nearby to aid traction if your car becomes stuck on ice.

If you would like some more tips about winter driving in Wisconsin, including a winter maintenance checklist for your car, you can visit https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/winter-drv/default.aspx There you can also find a brief one-minute WisDOT video on safety around snowplows.