Icy Conditions Lead To Crashes Around Tulsa

By Ashli Sims, The News On 6

UNDATED -- A blast of wintry weather made for dangerous conditions on Tulsa area roads and bridges.  Icy driving conditions were a factor in at least one death, and several others were sent to area hospitals.  Several drivers learned on Tuesday that even if you can't see it that doesn't mean it's not there.

One Creek County driver took a nasty spill down a ravine.  That happened before the Oklahoma Highway Patrol says the driver of a black pickup truck was going too fast for the icy conditions.  Investigators say he crossed this bridge, hit a patch of ice, and slammed head-on into a school bus.

The pickup driver was killed.  One student aboard the school bus was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, but the bus driver and another student were all right.

"That he did not have a loaded bus, we are thankful for that.  And, he was near the end of his route with just two students on the bus," said OHP Lt. George Brown.

In east Tulsa, another bridge was struck another pick-up truck.  Tulsa Police say a driver hit a slick spot, crossed the center median and flipped over, landing on its side.  Despite the crumpled truck and shattered windows, officers say the driver was not hurt.

Between the accidents and the icy conditions, the Broken Arrow Expressway was backed up for miles.

Officers urge drivers to take their time, saying it's better to be stuck in traffic, than in a ditch.

"There is precipitation on the roadways.  Temperatures are dropping. This makes for slick and hazardous roadways. We do urge drivers please slow down," said OHP Lt. George Brown.

Sand and salt trucks were busy Tuesday evening trying to stay ahead of the storm.