Police urge caution on snow-affected roads after multi-vehicle crash near Jindabyne

  • August 10, 2019

Image: Blue Mountains Police

Police are urging motorists to use caution in snow-affected areas after a multi-vehicle crash in the state’s alpine region last night.

Just after 10pm (Friday 9 August 2019), police were travelling from Jindabyne to Thredbo along Alpine Way, near Bullocks Drive, at Crackenback – in relation to separate incidents – when they came across two vehicles stopped in the roadway on a steep decline.

It’s believed the vehicles were stopped after a collision.

The police vehicle and two other vehicles – travelling at about 30km/h – attempted to stop, however all vehicles slid, causing multiple crashes.

About eight other vehicles coming down the road also lost control and were involved, with another five avoiding collision but becoming stuck in snow on the side of the road.

The road remained close until about 1.30am, before Roads and Maritime Services assisted.

No injuries or major damage has been reported to police.

Police are urging motorists to be cautious when driving on snow-affected roads by:

  • Leaving the two-wheel-drive at home; four-wheel-drives are best suited for driving in snow and ice conditions.
  • Checking weather and road conditions/warnings before you leave.
  • Carrying chains with you and fitting them in slippery conditions in the designated bays.

More useful tips can be found on the RMS website (https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/using-roads/trip-information/driving-in-snow.html).

Updated information on weather and road alerts for the Thredbo-Perisher area can be found via the National Parks and Wildlife Service NSW website (https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/visitor-centres/snowy-region-visitor-centre/local-alerts)