A 35-year-old Sergeant First Class assigned to the U.S. Army Recruiting Command died in a PMV-4 mishap that occurred 11 May 2022 in Bend, Oregon, at 0348 local. The Soldier was a passenger in a southbound Subaru WRX operated by his uncle when it crossed the centerline into the northbound lane. A northbound semi-truck attempted to avoid the Subaru, but the vehicles collided head-on in the middle of the highway. The roadway was icy at the time of the collision. The Soldier and the two other vehicle occupants were transported to the local hospital. The Soldier was pronounced dead 15May at 1600. The uncle was also pronounced dead by medical staff. This mishap is still under investigation by local law enforcement.
Since 2017, the Army has lost an average of 35 Soldiers a year to PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap was the 16th PMV-4 fatality of FY22 and below the number of fatalities for the same time period last year.
Whether its snow, sleet or ice, winter weather can cause extremely dangerous road conditions. In 2019, there were 440 fatal crashes and an estimated 33,000 injury crashes that occurred in wintry conditions. Preparing yourself – and your vehicle – for winter weather is key.
Slow down. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. In fact, in 2019, there were an estimated 182,000 police-reported crashes that occurred in wintry conditions. On the road, increase your following distance enough so you’ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
As the outside temperature drops, so does tire inflation pressure. Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is in your owner’s manual and on a label located on the driver's side door frame. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself. That number is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
Some other tips:•Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips.
•It’s best to check the tires when they’re cold, meaning that they have not been driven on for at least three hours.
•Check each tire’s age. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years regardless of use.
An inspection is not just about checking tire pressure and age. Remember to check:•for any damage or conditions that may need attention.
•the tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, bulges, scrapes, cracks or bumps. The tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch or greater on all tires as well as your spare tire.
Check your local weather and traffic reports before heading out. If your roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. If you do have to go out, make sure you are prepared in case you become delayed while traveling. If making a long road trip when winter weather is forecasted, consider leaving early or changing your departure to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.
Do not text or drive distracted, obey posted speed limits and always drive sober. Alcohol and drugs can impair safe and responsible driving by affecting things such as coordination, judgment, perception and reaction time. And remember to always wear your seat belt.
Tips provided by NHTSA.