NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Law enforcement agencies in Deep East Texas are urging caution as they respond to a surge in weather-related traffic accidents and advise drivers to prioritize safety during adverse conditions.
Diboll Assistant Police Chief Jacob Hopper emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary travel in inclement weather. “If you don’t have to get out in this weather, try not to. First off, people just coming out being curious, and then that leads to either crashes or an accident,” said Hopper.
For those on the road, Hopper recommends driving between 10 to 20 miles under the speed limit to reduce the risk of sliding on icy roads. He urged drivers to consider their vehicle’s capabilities and adapt to local conditions.
Hopper highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement in responding to major weather changes, emphasizing that officers may need additional time to reach incidents and prevent collisions. “The fact that ice forms, we’re not a state that normally deals with this very much,” he added.
Diboll police officers have already assisted outside city limits and responded to two minor weather-related accidents off State Highway 59. Hopper noted that some vehicles remain stranded due to the icy conditions, reinforcing the need for drivers to exercise caution.
While there has been a decrease in traffic, Hopper urged drivers to take precautions on all types of roadways, especially on major corridors like Highway 59, which sees significant commercial traffic to and from Houston. He emphasized the importance of maintaining distance and being mindful of larger vehicles.
Since Sunday night, the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office has responded to 20 traffic accidents, while Lufkin police have attended to 25 incidents. The Department of Public Safety reported numerous crashes and confirmed one fatality on Monday in Shelby County.
With low temperatures expected through Wednesday night, Hopper assured that law enforcement agencies will continue to assess road conditions. He acknowledged the efforts of those working behind the scenes to ensure people’s safety and facilitate travel for those who must be on the roads.