Increase in Accidents Brings Boom for Local Auto Collision Shops

The stretch of nasty winter weather we've seen recently, isn't just keeping street crews busy, it's bringing a boom for local auto repair shops.

"This year here, it's by far it's the worst I've ever seen, as far as increase in accidents," said Jody Barto, operations manager at Bonnell's Collision.

This winter has been so busy at Bonnell's, the shop is staying open an extra day each week. "We're working the crew six days a week to try and keep up with the amount that we have," said Barto. "Normally on a Monday, Tuesday, you see an increase in tow-ins and non drivable vehicles. The past several months, it's been a steady daily routine where you're seeing 8-10 tow-ins and non-drivable vehicles per day."

The increase of vehicles towed into Bonnell's, means an increase in accidents. Since the beginning of January, Erie police have responded to 488 accidents, with more than a hundred happening in the past six days. The alarming statistics have been steadily rising over the past four years.

"In the years past, we've had anywhere between 36 and 70 accidents for that same period of time," said Cpl. Anthony Letkiewicz, a traffic investigator for the Erie Police Department. "When the accident occurs, it's because the drivers aren't in control. The vehicle's either sliding or because they didn't allow a longer distance for stopping."

His advice to drivers, is to slow down, give yourself at least 140 feet to stop in slick conditions, and leave yourself some extra time.

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