Fatal One Car Accident Outside of Columbus
A 60 year old woman from Missoula was fatally injured on Sunday, January 7, at 10:31 in the morning while driving a Ford F150 on a snow and ice covered Interstate 90 near Columbus. The vehicle was reported to be “traveling too fast for road conditions,” this does not mean she was exceeding the speed limit. The vehicle hit a patch of ice and the driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, lost control, overcorrected and exited the left side of the roadway. The vehicle then turned over multiple times before coming to rest in the median. The driver was transported to Stillwater County where she was stabilized before being transported to Billings where she later succumbed to injuries sustained during the crash.
When roads are anything but dry and clear, adjust your speed accordingly. Speed limit signs show the fastest speed allowable by law when the road is dry and clear.
Friendly reminders:
Buckle your seat belt and use all safety equipment properly.
Drive alert and without impairment - If you’ve been partying or are sleepy, stay where you are. If you are hosting a party, make it a sleepover for those who have driven.
Even if you are late, there is no hurry. Far better to make it alive than not make it at all.
Slow down at night, when visibility is impaired, and when road conditions are not dry and clear. This is also the season of flash frozen roads and dashing deer.
Be aware of the area all around you. Even if you are driving perfectly, vehicles and other hazards are unpredictable. That’s why they are called accidents.
In addition, make sure you have a shovel and emergency survival equipment and supplies in your vehicle. Make sure your phone is charged. Make sure someone knows the route you are traveling and knows you arrived safely.