MCSO reminds motorists of safe driving tips during winter weather

MILWAUKEE COUNTY (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office currently has their patrol division out on the freeway system aiding motorists and ensuring commuter safety during the latest snowfall.

The Sheriff's Office would like to remind motorists of the following safety tips:

• Remember that excessive speed and following too close contribute to crashes in winter weather. Reduce your speed to match road conditions. Double or even triple your following distance: instead of keeping two car lengths between you and the car in front of you, maintain a following distance of four or even six car lengths.
• Wear your seatbelt. It’s the law.
• Make sure that your headlights are on.
• Slow down and prepare to stop. When stopping your vehicle, don’t wait until the last possible second. Four-wheel drive may help get your vehicle moving, but it doesn’t help you slow down or stop.
• If you are in a ditch: Turn on your hazard lights, remain in your vehicle, and call 911.
• If you are in a crash and your vehicle is still drivable: It’s safer to drive off the freeway to the nearest available exit. Once you have removed your vehicle from the freeway, call 911 or MCSO’s non-emergency number, 414-278-4788.
• If you are in a crash and your vehicle is not movable, or you are injured: Turn on your hazard lights, remain in your vehicle with your seat belt on, and call 911.
• Additional temporary locations to report accidents: Milwaukee Criminal Justice Facility (lobby), the Patrol Substation on Watertown Plank Road, and the Airport Substation at General Mitchell International Airport.
• Remember to Move Over for Emergency Personnel: The Move Over Law requires all drivers to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles and personnel working on the freeway.
• Be aware that all disabled vehicles must be towed during snow conditions.