SPOKANE, Wash. – As winter weather approaches, Spokane residents are preparing for the challenges of driving in snow and ice. Last year, during the first major snowfall, the Spokane Police Department reported 85 crashes in a single day.
Brianne Rasmussen, general manager at Downtown Crash Champions Auto Body Shop, shared insights into how the winter season impacts their business. “This is when we start getting busy and it’s just our time of year I guess, to help serve everyone and get them back on the road,” she said.
Rasmussen noted that poor road conditions not only affect drivers but also impact how quickly car parts can be delivered. “Roads are backed up as well for truck drivers trying to get the car parts here,” she explained.
Traffic Sergeant Teresa Fuller from the Spokane Police Department offered her top tips for avoiding weather-related collisions. “Make sure all of your equipment is working, double check your tires, double check your windshield wipers,” she said.
In the event of a crash, it’s important to assess if an emergency response is needed, especially if someone is injured or if damages exceed $1,000. If not, drivers should exchange information such as license, insurance, and phone number, and submit a police report within four days.
Fuller emphasized the importance of adjusting driving habits for winter conditions. “What’s imperative is to remember that the speed limits are for optimum road conditions and unfortunately in the winters in Spokane sometimes we have a lot less than that so people need to reduce their speed, increase their following distance and all of that stuff to keep our roadway safe,” she stated.
Rasmussen assured that Crash Champions is prepared for the busy season. “We get more staff in here so that we are prepared to get the cars done as quick as we can as long as we get the parts and get them in here,” she said. “The guys, they’re ready for it,” she added.
Sergeant Fuller advised giving yourself extra time to reach your destination and maintaining extra following distance between cars to ensure safety on the roads.
