According to Ontario Provincial Police, a collision on Friday, February 2, 2018, involving a coach bus and minivan on Highway 26, north of Stayner, Ontario has left a 10-year-old in critical condition.
The child was one of eight people in a minivan injured in the head-on crash. An update from the OPP confirms that 2 adults and 6 children were taken to hospital following the collision.
According to police, the minivan crossed the median for unknown reasons and collided with the bus.
The OPP said in a news release on Saturday that a cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Officials have stated that it was snowing at the time of the collision and that snow squalls in the area may have had an impact on driving conditions. Transport Canada has been asked to help OPP traffic collision investigators as they examine the factors that led to the crash, the OPP said.
Winter brings low visibility and treacherous roads. We remind drivers to remain alert and cautious while driving in winter conditions.
Take precautions to ensure that your vehicle is prepared for winter driving. This includes:
- If you do not have them already, get winter tires. They will provide greater traction under snowy or icy conditions.
- Keep a snow brush/scraper in your car, along with extra washer fluid in the trunk.
- Create an “emergency kit”, including items such as a blanket, water, a cellphone charge, a lightweight shovel, battery jumper cables, and a flashlight.
- Clear snow from your car before driving. Make sure that mirrors, all windows, and the top of your vehicle, are free of snow or frost before getting onto the road.
- Check tire air pressure frequently, as it decreases in cold weather.
Here are some tips for driving in the snow:
- Listen to the weather report before you head out and beware of conditions, such as blizzards and black ice, which are especially treacherous to drive in.
- Allow extra travel time to your destination and extra time and space to change lanes and turn safely. Check your blind spots.
- Ensure your headlights are on.
- Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly. Slow down enough to avoid any abrupt turns or stops, which can result in a skid.
- Avoid using cruise control on slippery roads.
- Make sure you can see properly and be seen by others by clearing your car of all snow and ice, and turning your lights on when visibility is poor.
- Never pass a snowplow— Keep a safe distance behind snowplows for your own safety and to allow them to do their job.
- Keep OPP numbers handy and travel with a fully-charged cellphone.
- If you get stuck or stranded, do not panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth, and call for help. Ensure you have your hazard lights turned on.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a motor vehicle collision, feel free to contact JEWELL RADIMISIS JORGE LLPfor assistance.