Virginia State Police urges drivers to stay off roads during winter storm: Guidelines for drivers who need to travel

According to state police, Buddy Deem, 81, of Smithville, lost control of his vehicle while driving on state Route 47 near MacFarlan at around 11 a.m. Wednesday. The vehicle went off the road in a sharp curve, down an embankment and struck a tree. Deem died at the scene, troopers said.

Virginia state troopers are urging drivers to stay off the road during the winter storm after responding to dozens of crashes overnight. Virginia State Police said the winter storm moved into parts of the Commonwealth late Monday night and has already begun impacting roads.

Virginia State Police are reminding drivers to exercise caution and stay off the road if possible, as winter weather continues to make conditions dangerous throughout the state.

Virginia State Police report that deteriorating conditions from the winter storm have resulted in more than 300 crashes since midnight.

Virginia State Police have provided tips for safe driving ahead of the expected winter storm. Police recommended that those who must travel during wintry weather should take the following steps: To check real-time traffic and road conditions before driving,

There have been 73 crashes reported in Virginia since the winter storm began to deliver heavy snow and ice throughout the state.