Cheboygan, MI : Multiple accidents over weekend shut down I-75 on Monday, January 9th 2017

Multiple vehicle accidents around the county over the weekend caused I-75 to be closed down for a period while emergency personnel cleared the damage. Cheboygan County Sheriff Dale Clarmont said his department, along with the Tuscarora Township Police Department and the Michigan State Police, policed upwards of two dozen accidents on I-75 from Riggsville Road to south of Indian River. The weather was poor due to a storm system that settled in, causing whiteout conditions and slippery roads between 10 a.m. And 3 p.m. "Due to the continuous accidents on I-75, it was shut down for a time for safety of all officers and to clear the vehicles off the expressway," said Clarmont. "At one point, we had all available two companies in the area assisting to get I-75 cleared." There were several damaged vehicles from running into each other due to visibility and several more that slid off into the ditch areas. Other vehicles went into the median and ditch to avoid accidents already on the roadway. "It was a very dangerous situation for all officers and travelers alike with accidents happening around them as they were policing other accidents," said Clarmont. Clarmont stressed that drivers need to adhere to the conditions they are in and drive accordingly, including lowering their speed, turning their headlights on and driving cautiously. "When conditions get that poor, it is recommended drivers exit the freeway until conditions clear, and to slow down," he said. One of the accidents involved 20-year-old Avery Yarbrough from Macomb, who was driving a 2004 Ford Ranger. He was driving northbound on I-75 just south of Indian River Saturday around 10:30 a.m. And lost control of his truck, entered the median and rolled over into several trees, becoming trapped in his vehicle. He was extricated from his vehicle with the Jaws of Life by the Tuscarora Township Fire Department and transported to McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey in serious condition, where he was treated for his injuries. Also assisting on the scene of these accidents were the Topinabee and Inverness Fire Departments. The Tuscarora Township Police Department was also kept very busy with more than 10 property damage accidents and vehicles in the ditch. "We had others that the county and state had to respond to because Sgt. Brandon Blumke was tied up," said Police Chief Gordon Temple. "They decided to shut down I-75 for safety purposes." Clarmont has offered winter drivers advice several times on how to remain safe on the roads during the winter. "The best advice is to slow down and allow yourself extra time and wear your seat belts," said Clarmont. "If conditions are bad, we ask that you do not drive." When driving during the winter, it is important to check your tires, engine oil, antifreeze and brakes before leaving on a trip. Everyone in the vehicle should also wear their seat belts whenever going somewhere. Clarmont also urges drivers to put their cell phones down, not use them while driving, and to reduce speed in the snow, sleet and rain. Allowing plenty of space for braking in the wet weather is also important. In order to slow down on snowy roads, pump the brakes rather than applying steady pressure and use extreme caution when driving down unplowed roads. Drivers should also keep headlights on and use low beams in snow storms. "Listen to the radio for information on local road and weather conditions and pull off the road if you're tired or if outside conditions worsen," said Clarmont. "If you break down, don't venture more than 100 yards from your vehicle to seek help." There are several things people should carry in their vehicles during the winter months, in case of emergency. These items include a map of the area in which you are traveling, water, a flashlight with extra batteries and a snow brush with ice scraper. Cat litter can be used to help gain traction on the icy roads. Carrying a spare tire, as well as tire chains or cables even for four-wheel-drive vehicles is also a good idea. A small shovel, hats, weatherproof gloves and boots, a heavy blanket, matches and flares and a cell phone are also good items to carry in the vehicle.

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Multiple accidents over weekend shut down I-75