Six crashes reported in Valentine in one week as winter driving conditions return

VALENTINE, Neb. — Valentine’s police chief is urging drivers to use extra caution after six vehicle crashes were reported in the city within a single week.

During the week of Dec. 7, Valentine police responded to one injury crash and five non-injury accidents.

“The increase in motor vehicle accidents is at least partially accounted for by the return of winter driving conditions,” Police Chief Jamon Slama wrote in his weekly report. “Drivers are reminded to take road and weather conditions into account and drive with caution.”

Slama encouraged drivers to slow down, increase following distances and allow extra stopping time, especially when approaching intersections.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also offers winter driving reminders, including avoiding crowding snow plows, keeping fuel tanks as full as possible, and ensuring headlights, tires, windshield wipers and cooling systems are in proper working order.

If a vehicle becomes stalled or is involved in a crash during winter weather, NHTSA recommends staying with the vehicle and avoiding overexertion. Drivers should make their vehicle visible by using hazard lights or placing bright markers on windows or antennas, and keeping the interior dome light on.

Officials also warn drivers to be mindful of carbon monoxide risks by keeping exhaust pipes clear of snow and running the vehicle only intermittently for warmth, avoiding long periods of idling in enclosed or snow-covered areas.