First snowfall created a mess on roads

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH/AP) - The first snow of the season for much of Indiana created hazardous travel and delayed many schools across central and southern Indiana.

The snow really started falling around 4:30 a.m. Monday. It created a dusting across the roads, but it was the cold weather that made it so slick.

Indiana State Police say one motorist died in a series of collisions in the southbound lanes of Interstate 65 in Clinton County about 40 miles northwest of Indianapolis.

Four vehicles collided on the slick pavement, and a fifth vehicle slid into a guardrail. A semi trailer then struck all five vehicles and killed one motorist who had left his vehicle.

The highway was closed for three hours. Separate sections of I-65 and I-70 in Indianapolis also were closed at times Monday morning.

State police also said the snowy conditions led to numerous slide-offs and crashes on Interstate 69 in Delaware and Grant counties and hundreds in the Indianapolis area.

Motorists are cautioned that there may be lane restrictions at various locations, and should be prepared for sudden speed reductions or stops.

Citizens can access road and weather information by visiting INDOT's web site TrafficWise.IN.gov or dial 800-261-ROAD (7623).

Motorists please use the following cautions when driving:

• Clear all windows, head/tail lamps of snow and ice
• Turn headlights on, even in the daylight hours
• Reduce speed
• Be aware of sudden stops
• Keep distance between vehicles, don't tailgate
• Hang up cell phones, and drive with caution
• Buckle up
• MOVE OVER, SLOW DOWN when approaching emergency vehicles 

Stay with WISH-TV and www.wishtv.com for the latest on this developing situation.