The arrival of freezing rain overnight Thursday and into Friday means Western Washington roads will only become slicker.
Washington State Department of Transportation officials are reminding drivers to be prepared in case they need to chain up.
Experts say those who have never used chains before should practice putting them on before they’re in an emergency situation or plan on heading over a mountain pass, where chains could be required.
“Real quick, two things. Make sure you get the right size chains for your tires and put the chains on according to if your vehicle is front wheel or rear wheel drive. Check your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations,” said Washington State Patrol Trooper Chris Thorson.
WSDOT said failure to obey a chains required sign can result in a ticket of up to $500.
Transportation officials said with the ice storm bearing down, it’s almost guaranteed that there will be difficult driving conditions throughout Western Washington.
There have already been dozens of crashes this week after rounds of snowfall followed by colder temperatures.
KIRO 7 spoke with one driver who said she waited more than an hour for a tow truck after she was involved in a crash along Interstate 90.
“You know, I had to try to brake carefully because I didn’t want to start sliding, but I wound up here in a ditch. There was no time to react. It was like my life flashing,” said Nancy Tupper.
Despite the backups and all the wrecks, WSDOT officials said no one has been seriously hurt so far.
Drivers crossing the mountains should also be prepared for the possibility of pass closures.