(PERTH COUNTY, ON) On Thursday March 20, 2014, Perth County experienced a Spring Snowfall which seemed to catch many motorists off guard.
Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers were dispatched to a total of fourteen collisions between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Twelve of these collisions involved single motor vehicles, with the majority rolling in ditches and becoming stuck in snowbanks. Two of the fourteen collisions involved multi vehicles but they were minor in nature. There were no serious Injuries reported although the damage to many vehicles was extensive.
An 8:30 a.m. crash of a car into a hydro pole along Line 32 near Road 140 south west of Sebringville resulted in a short power outage. The impact caused the pole to snap and lines to spark. A small section of Line 32 required closure from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing hydro crews and emergency personnel to make the necessary repairs and remove the debris.
Motorists are reminded that we may still experience some snowy and icy roads within the next few days. Snow on our roads may be hard-packed and as slippery as ice. It can also be rutted, or it can be smooth and soft. Wet snow can make for slushy roads.
Slow down and avoid sudden turns of the steering wheel, and sudden braking and accelerating, which could cause a skid. Extra caution should be exercised when driving in these conditions.