Topeka (WIBW) - The remnants of a winter storm left slick roads that sparking dozens of accidents around the Topeka area Wednesday morning.

Among the most serious was one on Highway 75 south of Topeka just before 10:30 am.

Authorities say an SUV lost control on the icy road, overcorrected and hit the concrete bridge pillar for the 69th street overpass.

Shawnee Heights fire crews had to extricate both the driver and a passenger from the mangled vehicle. 50-year old James Hager of Carbondale had injuries considered critical, while his wife, 48-year old Carol Hager, was in serious condition.

The accident was among 22 traffic-related calls the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office handled between 6 am and 3 pm Wednesday. The calls included 7 non-injury accidents and 14 slide-offs or other assistance calls.

On days like this, Shawnee Heights Fire Chief Tom Garcia says the weather adds an extra challenge for emergency responders. He says the cold is hard on equipment and personnel. He says they slip and slide as they make their way around the scene, but do the best they can.