Topeka (WIBW) - Dropping temps slicked streets and highways back up around the Topeka area Tuesday night, forced Topeka Police to implement Phase III accident reporting status for a few hours.

In Phase III, TPD only responds to accidents involving injuries, that are hit and run, or which cause disabling damage to vehicles. All others are asked to exchange information and file a report at the Law Enforcement Center at their earliest convenience.

Several slide offs were heard on city streets and on I-70 through the Capital City. In addition, I-70 west of Topeka was reported to be completely slow-and-ice packed.

Earlier in the day, Topeka Police say that between 6 am and 1 pm, officers responded to 12 non-injury accidents, 4 injury accidents and 15 stuck or stranded vehicles.

TPD says the injuries were minor and, in many cases, no damage resulted either. They say 9 of the non-injury crashes and 1 injury crash required reports be taken.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office also reported a lot of activity. From midnight to 2 pm Tuesday, deputies worked 9 non-injury accidents; 1 accident with minor injuries; and 6 calls to assist drivers who slid off, became stuck or were stranded.

Earlier in the morning, TPD reported three specific areas of concern around the city for slick streets: 21st St. from Kansas to Adams; SE 29th and Minnesota to Eisenhower Middle School all the way through the bend to Indiana; and the SW 29th and Burlingame area.

City street crews went back out in the late morning with blades down to clear slush from the streets. They also planned to begin retreating the streets, in preparation for the next round of snow.

Safe driving reminder from the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office:
Slow down! for wet, snowy, icy conditions.
Avoid quick braking or acceleration.
Find out about driving conditions before you go.
Every time - buckle up!
Turn signals, brake lights and windows need to be clear of snow.
You should never use cruise control in winter weather conditions.