Colder Temperatures bring dangerous conditions to mountain roads

As the holiday season is upon us, it brings colder temperatures.

Many families plan trips and they can be risky for many. Mountain roads can be winding, not well-lit, and bring hazardous conditions that can be unforgiving for inexperienced drivers.

“People driving up towards the hills or towards the mountains, they can experience icy conditions,” said Hector Carias, a California Highway Patrol Public Information Officer. “Most cars have a monotone color so having your headlights is imperative.”

Many new cars have automatic day headlights, but the tail lights don’t turn on. Headlights aren’t just for the driver’s safety, but for other cars to be able to see them, especially in rain or fog.

To help better prepare themselves, drivers can visit Caltrans for updates.

Wildlife is also a possible danger.

“I had a buck run out in front of me when I was riding my bike at night,” said Logan Thompson, a community member. “I had to brake hard and swerve a little because it froze in my headlight.”

According to Smart Growth America, around 200 people die due to collisions with wildlife, and one million animals die on the road every day.

The best way to limit accidents is driving the appropriate speed that best suits the current weather conditions.

“Even if the speed limit is 55, the appropriate speed may be 35 if it’s really foggy or heavy rain,” Carias said.

To learn more about safe driving and how to navigate certain inclement weather, visit National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.