Regina streets were full of accidents and even more close calls during the rush hour commute Tuesday as slippery streets, white outs and wicked winds accompanied drivers home.
The milder temperatures expected over the next few days may seem like a welcome reprieve, but freezing rain is expected to hit most of southeastern Saskatchewan during that time.
As the wild weather continues in the province, the number of collisions pile up, too, keeping SGI busy.
“We did a comparison of claims from October 1st to December 10th looking at 2009 and the same period for 2010,” Kelly Brinkworth from SGI said. “There have been 4,600 more claims this year for that time period.”
Along with the milder temperatures comes what could potentially be more dangerous driving conditions. Friction from a vehicle’s wheels can melt the ice on the roads, making it easy to slip and slide.
“When you’re actually moving on ice, there’s a very thin layer of water forming on top of the ice,” University of Regina Physics Professor Dr. Zisis Papandreou said. “That acts basically as a lubricant, as a lubricating fluid.”
Dr. Papandreou says temperatures near zero degrees are worse for driving compared to a deep freeze. No matter the vehicle, speeding and stopping suddenly will cause drivers to slide.
“Lifting your foot off the accelerator is the first thing, and if the conditions permit, gradually apply the break and have a feel for the car,” Dr. Papandreou explained.
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