Van Buren, AR – Arkansas State Police are urging residents to stay off highways tonight as rapidly dropping temperatures are expected to refreeze melting snow and ice, creating dangerous driving conditions across the state.
According to Arkansas State Police, a trooper working a crash on Interstate 40 in Van Buren early Monday morning narrowly avoided serious injury after a tractor-trailer struck his parked patrol vehicle. Officials said the trooper had stepped away to assist a stranded motorist moments before the collision.
Images released by state police show the rear of the patrol car crushed against the icy roadway. Authorities say the crash serves as a stark reminder of how quickly refreezing can turn wet pavement into hazardous black ice.
“Thankfully, the trooper was not inside his vehicle at the time,” the department stated. “We urge Arkansans to stay off the highways tonight for their own safety and to help keep law enforcement safe while they serve our state.”
Drivers are encouraged to delay travel, reduce speeds, and use extra caution through Tuesday morning, particularly along bridges and overpasses where ice can reform first.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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