Oceanside RCMP responded to two separate incidents involving cars sliding off the highway after hitting slushy sections along Hwy. 19 on Tuesday, Nov. 26. (Oceanside RCMP)

By Alex Rawnsley

WINTER BLAST

Wet snow, sudden slush highlight winter highway driving challenges

Nov 28, 2019 | 3:54 AM

PARKSVILLE — The wet snow and slush which briefly bombarded the region earlier this week is a timely reminder about the hazards of winter driving.

Oceanside RCMP responded to two separate car accidents on Tuesday, Nov. 27, all on Hwy. 19., all involving dramatic and unexpected changes in road conditions.

The most serious of the two crashes saw the vehicle slide off the road, flip end-over-end and roll before coming to a rest off the highway.

Both vehicles were written off and only minor injuries were reported in both cases.

RCMP Cst. Mark Maddex said the light dusting of snow the region experienced was enough to cause trouble.

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“They were driving from wet conditions into slush and it came up on them so fast, they just didn’t have any reaction time.”

Maddex noted the drivers were travelling under the posted speed limit.

“There’s nothing more terrifying than suddenly losing control of your vehicle at highway speeds due to not being prepared for what’s ahead of you,” Maddex said.

RCMP are using Tuesday’s incidents to remind drivers the importance of driving appropriately for winter conditions and ensuring tires are adequate for the season.

Winter tires are not required on Hwy. 19 or Hwy. 1 between Campbell River and Mill Bay. However, they are necessary for the Malahat, north of Campbell River and along Hwy. 4/4A between Oct. 1 and Mar. 31.

A map showing the routes on BC’s south coast where winter tires and chains are required during the winter months. (BC Ministry of Transportation)

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley