LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) -- Wisconsin State Troopers are encouraging drivers to stay off the roads after snow begins to fall Monday night.
Trooper Tom Campbell said those who have to travel should remember snow storms are always a busy time for police officers -- who are called to the scenes of weather-related accidents.
Campbell said drivers should keep in mind state troopers tend to travel in the left lane.
"If you see us coming up behind you, just make sure you can get over into the right lane safely," Campbell said. "It's much easier for us to pass vehicles on the left."
Campbell also recommended leaving about "four seconds" between the front of your vehicle and the car or truck in front of you. Campbell said that gives you ample time to stop suddenly, and added that rule applies for all road conditions, not just snow storms.
He said there is a set of basic guidelines to follow in the event your vehicle ends up in a ditch.
"If you have a cell phone with you then attempt to make contact with a local law enforcement agency," Campbell said. "The state patrol, the county or a city agency will be able to respond to your location or you'll be able to get information on the phone through dispatch on how long it could possible take for somebody to come to your location."
"If you can stay there, somebody should be there as quickly as possible to get you," Campbell said.
For those who have to travel during the storm, Campbell said calling 5-1-1 from any phone will get you updated road conditions that can help you plan your route accordingly before you head out the door.
