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The past couple of weeks have been a real test of skill for drivers in the area. Snow and ice on roadways definitely makes for hazardous driving. In the past, I've talked about being extra cautious and giving yourself extra time when heading out on winter mornings. I've also mentioned having your vehicle in good mechanical condition, with proper tires and equipment. These are all important things to remember when preparing to do battle with the elements. I really believe though, that experience and common sense are the best allies to have when driving in poor conditions.

When I was a young driver, I approached winter driving like it was an Olympic event. I was fearless and used much less common sense that I should have. Luckily, my old man saw to it that I had studded snow tires and added weight in the trunk. He threw in some realistic threats of great bodily harm if I did anything stupid and sent me on my way. Fortunately for me, I didn't hurt myself of anyone else and kept my car in one piece. As the years went by, I became a better winter-time driver. I used more common sense and became more experienced.

Now, as a police officer, I see exactly what my dad tried to teach me to avoid. During the course of my duties, I investigate traffic accidents. Almost all accidents are avoidable even those that occur during inclement weather. Many drivers are quick to blame weather conditions for avoidable accidents. Sure, poor road conditions are a factor in many accidents. However, preparation, caution and the experience to know when and how to adjust to poor conditions could prevent many accidents. I have observed that many accidents involve young drivers. Young folks tend to have less fear than older people. This leads to a failure to properly adjust driving tactics to the road conditions. Failure to adjust, then, often leads to an accident. What I'm getting at is that people should use common sense when driving during the winter, or any time for that matter. Only time and experience behind the wheel will hone your driving skills, but common sense will many times insure that you're around to get the experience.

Speaking of accidents, on three occasions this past week, I've responded to reports of accidents where the driver or drivers have left the scene without reporting the accident to the police. On each occasion, the parties were later found. Some had excuses for their actions, most of which were poor. So, just a reminder to those who don't remember from the driving license test that Kansas law states that the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury, death or total property damage to an apparent extent of $500 or more shall give notice immediately of such accident by the quickest means of communication to the police department. The main question that people have here is when is $500 of damage apparent?

Folks, let me tell you, almost every accident in this day and age results in $500 property damage. Today's cars are high tech and high cost. Auto body repair and parts are expensive. Do yourself a favor, if you have an accident involving another vehicle or property call the police. You'll save yourself the additional headache of a hit-and-run charge. Also, maintain liability insurance on your vehicles. This is also mandatory by law.