(Havre) – Winter has arrived in North Central Montana and that affects how you drive in certain conditions. Lieutenant Lucas Ames of the Havre Police Department shares tips on things you can do to increase safety before you drive.
“So, the first thing you can do is just plan ahead. Start your vehicle well before you plan on leaving so your windshield is completely defrosted, clear the snow off your windshield so you can see.”
- Check Road Conditions: Use 511MT or MDT alerts for closures and weather updates.
- Prepare Your Vehicle:
- Ensure tires have good tread or use winter tires.
- Keep windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temps.
- Check battery health—cold weather reduces performance.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Include blankets, water, snacks, flashlight, shovel, and traction aids (like sand or kitty litter).
Montana ranks among the top 3 most dangerous states for winter driving, along with Alaska and Wyoming. Rural roads and severe weather contribute to high crash rates. Between 2020 and 2022, Montana had one of the highest per-capita winter-related traffic fatality rates in the U.S.
