Winter weather was determined to be a contributing factor in a deadly crash Tuesday, Nov. 17, on Interstate 80 near Elm Creek in Buffalo County.

The Nebraska State Patrol responded to the crash involving a semi and a car just after8:30 p.m. on Tuesday night.  The driver of an eastbound semi-trailer truck lost control of his rig. The semi slid into the median and jackknifed. The driver of a westbound 2008 Saturn Ion hit the brakes and lost control of the car. The car slid into the median and hit the jackknifed semi. At the time of the crash roads were snow covered.

Irene Stierwalt, 55, Ogallala, a backseat passenger in the car was killed in the crash. The driver of the car, Bridgette Robinett, 19, Torrington, Wyo., and two other passengers, Sheldon Baltzell, 20, of Bayard, and Leslie Wray, 43, of Ogallala, were transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, with non-life threatening injuries.

The driver of the semi, Bryan Boyer, 55, of Eden, Ohio, was not injured.

A seat belt was in use by the semi driver. None of the occupants of the car were wearing seat belts.

The investigation into the crash continues. The Nebraska State Patrol was assisted by the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Elm Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue and Good Samaritan Ambulance Service.

Motorists traveling during winter weather conditions are reminded to keep up-to-date with the changing weather and road conditions by utilizing 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The System can be accessed by dialing 511 or online at <www.511.nebraska.gov >. A Nebraska 511 mobile app is also available to download at no cost for smartphone users. Simply search your app provider for Nebraska 511.

As conditions change motorists are reminded to adjust their speed and never travel faster than conditions allow. Slick surfaces make it difficult to steer and stop. Do not drive in slick, wet, snowy weather with your cruise control on. Motorists are also encouraged to give themselves plenty of time and distance to react to others around them. Be sure to exercise caution on bridges and overpasses, keep your headlights on and make sure they are cleaned off.

Now is also the time to include a winter weather survival kit in your vehicle The following are some basic items to include in your kit should you become stranded in wintry weather.

Emergency  first aid kit	Ice scraper, shovel, small bag of sand
Mobile phone, charger, batteries	High energy or dehydrated foods
Blankets or sleeping bag, extra set of clothing and winter accessories	Flashlight, include extra batteries (cold weather reduces battery strength)
Jumper cables, tow rope, tool kit	Empty can (both large and small)
Matches and candles	Red flag or bandana.

Motorists in need of non-emergency roadside assistance can call the Nebraska state Patrol Highway Helpline when safe to do so by dialing *55 from any cell phone or 1-800-525-5555. Emergencies should be reported to 911.