Edmonton snowfall causes chaos on city streets

A snow storm in Edmonton Friday resulted inchaos on city streets, triggering142 collisions, say city police.

There were also ninehit-and-runsand six crashes that led to injuries.

Images and videos on social media showedvehicles in downtown Edmontonsliding out of control as they descended the hill at103rd Streetnear 89th Avenue.

Long waits for tow services

Those looking fortow service from the Alberta MotorAssociation werewaitingmore than four hours.Members looking for a battery boost, a tire change or help to unlock a vehicle waitedfor three to four hours.

"We're pretty busy right now. It's pretty much non-stop," said Ryan Lemont, AMA manager of fleet operations.

He saidthe AMA anticipated the workloadyesterday,trying to get workers ready for long hours and overtime.

"The roads were super slick, even with winter tires. It took me almost double the time it takesto get across the city."

Tow ban

A towing ban wasin place on Highway 2 from Edmonton, south to Millet. The ban will be lifted when conditions improve, with safer conditions to tow vehicles along the highway.

Strathcona RCMPwerewarning drivers of heavy snowfall and challenging driving conditions in anticipation of Friday'srush hour.

They offered these tips for drivers:

• Slow down when conditions are not ideal.
• Motorists have a legal obligation to drive according to road conditions.
• Keep your headlights on.
• Do not use cruise control in winter conditions.
• Signal well in advance of turning to give other motorists time to anticipate and react to your actions.
• Allow yourself extra distance to stop.
• Remember that bridge decks may be slippery even when other parts of the highway are not, since they are subject to temperature fluctuations.
• Ensure your windows are clear of ice and snow before you head out onto the streets