Trailer Rollover near Baker City due to ice conditions

By Garrett Christensen on Tuesday, November 15th, 2022 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News

BAKER CITY – (Information from the Oregon Department of Transportation & Oregon State Police) Winds and snow drifts might be the more obvious winter driving hazards, but ice conditions are already causing accidents on Oregon Highways. A recent rollover crash on I-84 Eastbound near Baker City demonstrates just how devastating ice on the roadway can be, even in the best-case scenarios. As published by the Oregon State Police:

“11/11.2022 21:51

Crash – Non-Injury

Location – I-84, Mile post 219 EB, BAKER

A trooper responded to a rollover crash near milepost 291 on I-84 eastbound. A white pickup, pulling a camper trailer, was traveling eastbound when it hit ice. The trailer jackknifed, causing the truck to rotate 180 degrees. The truck and trailer came to their final, uncontrolled rest facing west on the eastbound shoulder, with the trailer rolled onto its sides. The pickup did not roll in the event. The truck was cut free on the trailer and Blue Mountain Towing of Baker City was arranged to retrieve the trailer the following day. No injuries were reported.”

To avoid similar, if not worse, incidents, the Oregon Department of Transportation reminds drivers of the following:

“Take extra precautions near bridges and overpasses as they are often the first to freeze

Roads that are wet or have fresh snow, packed snow, or ice have varying degrees of traction. Adjust your speed to match road conditions accordingly.

Increase your distance from vehicles in front of you. Allow about three times as much space as usual.

If your vehicle suddenly feels like it’s floating, gradually slow down. Tap on your brakes gently; don’t slam on them.

Changes in elevation can drastically affect road and weather conditions. Watch for icy spots, especially in shaded corners.

Avoid driving through snowdrifts — they may cause your vehicle to spin out of control.

Blowing powder or dry snow can limit your visibility, especially when approaching or following trucks or snowplows. Keep your distance to avoid being blinded by blowing snow.

Look for signs of ice on windshield wipers, side view mirrors, road signs, trees or fences. If ice has formed on any of these things, it may be on the road as well.”

In addition, drivers should be aware of the dangers posed by black ice. Thin sheets of ice can blanket the roadway and allow pavement to show through. These iced-over sections give the illusion as if the roadway is only wet as they lack the obvious glossy appearance of typical ice patches. According to ODOT, black ice sheets are most common in the early morning during low temperatures but can easily last throughout the day in shaded areas. As further noted by ODOT, snow tires will not provide additional traction on ice patches and even chains will not completely compensate for the loss of traction. Speed and awareness make all the difference. Some portions of roadway, such as Lad Canyon, include variable speed limit displays which can change to match conditions.

During the winter months, drivers should always check and prepare accordingly before setting out. Visit Road & Weather Conditions Map | TripCheck – Oregon Traveler Information for live updates on Oregon road conditions. For more information on winter driving safety, visit Oregon Department of Transportation : Winter Travel Tips : State of Oregon