Oegon State Police and Linn County Sheriff’s patrol officers, along with Oregon Department of Transporation personnel, responded to several snow-related crashes on the Santiam Pass over the weekend, starting Thursday.
Police logs show an incident on Oct. 12 near milepost 62, in which a patient was transported.
Thursday morning, ODOT crew members were busy motorists whose vehicles had spun out or were stuck in the snow about 30 miles east of Sweet Home.
“There were some issues all day, but the largest incident was between 3:20 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. when a number of cars spun out and had to be helped and towed,” said Angela Beers Seydel, ODOT public information officer for Region 2, which includes Linn County.
“Winter weather has come about three weeks early, and yes, Thursday (Oct. 12) was busy on U.S. 20 with lots of vehicles spinning out and several crashes, particularly between mileposts 62 and 65, as travelers were having difficulty with conditions.”
On Oct. 13 and Oct. 15, there were non-injury crashes near milepost 71.
“With more snow in the forecast, we’re reminding people to be prepared for winter travel,” Seydel said. “Have supplies in the vehicle to stay warm and dry, carry chains and know how to use them, slow down, be aware, and drive for conditions.”