Wyoming’s winter roadways

Lieutenant Erik Jorgensen of the Wyoming Highway Patrol has seen some of the worst weather that Wyoming can throw at its roads. 

While performing his duties a number of years ago, Jorgensen had to find and transport a bus load of traveling high school athletes to a Wyoming Department of Transportation maintenance shop to keep them warm. According to Jorgensen, the blowing snow was so intense, he struggled to see past the hood of his patrol car. 

It was through challenges such as this that he learned the lessons needed to drive safely in Wyoming. According to the WYDOT Report on Traffic Crashes 2020, the Cowboy State experienced 263 accidents during the Holiday Season between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. 

One of the largest contributing factors to tough winter driving is Wyoming’s wind. Cowboy State Daily reported there were 167 blow-over crashes on Wyoming highways in 2020.

High winds may not interfere with passenger cars and trucks to the extent of large tractor-trailers, but once snow is thrown into the mix, visibility becomes challenging, forcing the Highway Patrol to close roads. 

Should one find themselves stranded due to the icy road conditions or forced to stop this winter due to blinding snow, the Wyoming Highway Patrol says staying with your vehicle can save your life. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises citizens that if they are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself and your passengers, your car, and your surroundings.

• Stay with your car and don’t overexert yourself. 
• Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on. 
• Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car only sporadically — just long enough to stay warm. Don’t run your car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

Keep cell phones charged and notify the Wyoming Highway Patrol at 1-800-442-9090, of your location.