Winter is officially here, and with that comes the potential for dangerous road conditions. Snow, sleet and ice make it harder to control and stop a vehicle.

From October 2023 to May 2024, winter weather contributed to more than 11,000 crashes in Wisconsin, resulting in nine fatalities and more than 2,000 injuries, according to a Wisconsin State Patrol news release.

The WSP’s January Law of the Month focuses on safe winter driving.

“Many of us look forward to the beauty and adventure of a new season, but we can’t deny that winter weather can also create treacherous road conditions,” WSP Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “It’s always best to stay off the roads in slippery conditions. If you must drive, be sure to avoid distractions, allow additional time to get to your destination, and give fellow motorists and snowplows extra space.”

Some advice for safer winter driving —

Drive a reasonable speed to prevent crashes

State law requires drivers to travel at speeds that are reasonable and prudent for current conditions. Speed limits are set for when roads are clear and dry, so it may be too dangerous to drive at the posted speed limit in slippery conditions. Many winter crashes and slide offs are caused by drivers going too fast in hazardous conditions.

Give snowplows space to work

Snowplow drivers work long hours to clear nearly 115,000 miles of roads across Wisconsin, so it’s important for everyone to give them the space they need to get the job done.

When approaching a snowplow that’s clearing ice or snow, or laying salt or sand, state law requires drivers to stay at least 200 feet back on a highway with a speed limit of more than 35 miles per hour and 75 feet back on a road with a slower speed limit.

Road conditions ahead of a plow are likely worse, so drivers should use extra caution if passing a snowplow. Plow drivers have limited visibility and the vehicles often create a cloud of snow that can obscure visibility for all.

Prepare for winter driving

It is best to stay off the roads during severe winter weather to eliminate the risk of a crash and keep the roads clear for first responders and snowplow drivers. If you must head out, always prepare yourself and your vehicle for winter driving.

The State Patrol recommends these winter driving tips —

— Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, lights, roof and hood. Snow and ice sliding off the roof or blowing off the hood can be dangerous.

–When driving while it’s snowing, turning on headlights is required. The general rule is if the windshield wipers are on, headlights should be on as well.

— Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time, following distance and reduce speed during winter conditions.

— Avoid sudden braking or steering. Don’t be overconfident with 4WD or AWD. Remember that bridge decks and overpasses freeze up first.

— Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions.

— Buckle up and put the phone down while driving, every trip, every time.

— Have a fully charged phone and an emergency kit in your vehicle.

— If stranded or have slid off the road, stay buckled up in the vehicle and call for help. Getting out of the vehicle is very dangerous, especially in winter weather.

Know before you go

511 Wisconsin is a free resource that provides live updates on traffic and road conditions. Winter road condition categories were recently updated to better reflect current conditions on roads across the state. The categories are now: Normal, partially covered, completely covered, travel not advised, and no report. Stay informed with 511. If you must travel, know before you go — download the 511 Wisconsin app, go to 511wi.gov or call 511 to monitor conditions.