Driving too fast for conditions causes many wintertime troubles

Even when snow and ice-covered roadways are as slick as a skating rink, some drivers barrel along as if they're immune to the laws of physics. Not surprisingly, they often discover that they are not immune to a long, cold wait for a tow truck-and possibly an expensive traffic ticket-when their vehicle slides into a ditch or crashes because they were driving too fast for conditions.

"When road conditions are treacherous or visibility is reduced, driving at the posted speed limit may actually be too fast for conditions," says Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent David Collins. "On ice and snow, drivers must slow down to keep their vehicles under control and to be able to stop safely. They also must provide more space for vehicles around them to prevent rear-end collisions and other crashes."

Slowing down when driving conditions are poor is not just sound advice-it's also the law.

It is illegal to drive at speeds that exceed what is "reasonable and prudent" under existing road conditions. Drivers are required to adjust their speeds to take into account both the actual and potential hazards due to weather, highway conditions or other traffic.

A violation of this state law costs $198.60 with four demerit points added to the driver's record. A second offense within a 12-month period costs $249 with an additional four points.

"The slogan 'Snow Means Slow' also applies to four-wheel drive and other heavy-duty vehicles, which typically need the same stopping distance as other vehicles on slippery roads," says Superintendent Collins. "It's too late to change your driving behavior after your vehicle is in the ditch or involved in a crash. If you drive too fast for conditions, you may end up with an expensive ticket in addition to towing and vehicle repair bills."