10-30-2002, 04:27 PM
As most of us are aware, except those in Hawaii and other locations further west, winter has arrived. It can be a time of new challenges for fishing and hunting, or it can be a disaster. With all the newcomers in Colorado, I consider it a disaster to compete with them on slick roads in a snow storm. They haven't the slightest idea about how to drive on slick pavement, even with their new, shiny SUVs that have never been on an unpaved road. Before any members jump on me, let me explain that yes, I do know what it feels like to hit a patch of unseen black ice and spin out. It is not an experience I'd like to repeat anytime soon. Watching on-coming traffic barreling at you while your truck is spinning 360 degrees is somewhere rated with a proctology exam and has the same result -- the old pucker factor kicks in with a vengence.
Denver had its first significant snowfall yesterday and last night (October 29,30) and it seemed that everyone took leave of their senses, and common sense. Fast driving, passing unsafely, bright lights on, and even one drinking while driving (I couldn't see the brand of beer). And of course there were those who drove too slow (can't fault them on that), but in the fast lane? As experienced as I am with winter driving (both in-town and back country), I wasn't prepared for that patch of black ice I hit. After a 360 degree spin across four lanes of traffic, and the center medium, I ended up in the ditch. Luckily I had four-wheel drive and managed to drive my way out. That taught me a lesson, never assume anything. I didn't see the ice, the 18-wheeler next to me didn't see it and the two cars behind me didn't see it but I should have known. Ice forms under bridges as well as on top. There is no scarier feeling than to be driving in a straight line and then spinning out. It was a good thing I was close to home, I had to change my pants and dry out the seat.
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Denver had its first significant snowfall yesterday and last night (October 29,30) and it seemed that everyone took leave of their senses, and common sense. Fast driving, passing unsafely, bright lights on, and even one drinking while driving (I couldn't see the brand of beer). And of course there were those who drove too slow (can't fault them on that), but in the fast lane? As experienced as I am with winter driving (both in-town and back country), I wasn't prepared for that patch of black ice I hit. After a 360 degree spin across four lanes of traffic, and the center medium, I ended up in the ditch. Luckily I had four-wheel drive and managed to drive my way out. That taught me a lesson, never assume anything. I didn't see the ice, the 18-wheeler next to me didn't see it and the two cars behind me didn't see it but I should have known. Ice forms under bridges as well as on top. There is no scarier feeling than to be driving in a straight line and then spinning out. It was a good thing I was close to home, I had to change my pants and dry out the seat.
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