Weather factor in fatal crash in Hudson, police say
May 6—HUDSON — A driver was pronounced dead after after running off the road and hitting a ditch late Saturday evening, according to Hudson police.
The Hudson Police Department investigated a fatal traffic crash involving a single vehicle that occurred on Saturday, May 4.
Around 11:30 p.m. Saturday, a 1998 Chevrolet S10 pickup truck was traveling north on U.S. Highway 321 near Whispering Pines Drive when it ran off the roadway to the right striking a speed limit sign and ditch, according to a press release from Hudson police. This caused the vehicle to roll on its side before coming to a stop. The vehicle left the roadway during heavy rainfall
The driver of the vehicle, Cloyde Alan Greene, 66, of Lenoir, was pronounced dead at the scene by Caldwell County EMS. No other injuries were reported.
Hudson police said there were no witnesses to the accident.
Following the investigation, Hudson police said that the contributing factors to the crash were heavy rainfall and speed that was too fast for the weather conditions.
The News-Topic reached out to master trooper Christopher M. Casey, with N.C. Highway Patrol, about driving in the rain, especially this time of year.
Casey said that before drivers head out onto the road during heavy rainfall, there are a few things to consider.
"When you know it is going to be one of those heavy or torrential downpours and you don't need to go out that second, plan accordingly, and see if you can wait to go out," he said. "Make sure it is an essential thing."
But if it is necessary to be out on the road, Casey said there is still a checklist to stay safe.
"Make sure you check your tires and make sure they have good tread on them... If you absolutely need to go out, but the rain gets heavier, pull over and wait for it to pass... Also, one thing that people can forget — reduce your speed. If the speed limit is 55, that is 55 with perfect weather conditions."
