Winter weather is in the forecast for northwest Pennsylvania over the next few days, and PennDOT is urging motorists to use caution while driving.
As the storm progresses, crews will work around the clock, as needed. Salt, anti-skid and other materials are in good supply. Plow trucks and other equipment are ready, PennDOT said.
Motorists are reminded that roadways will not be free of snow while precipitation is falling. With freezing temperatures, roads that look wet may actually be icy, and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form without warning.
The department also asks motorists to allow plenty of space – six car lengths – when following a truck that is plowing or spreading winter materials. Also, for their own safety and the safety of plow operators, motorists should never attempt to pass a truck while it is plowing or spreading winter materials.
Drivers always should be alert for sudden squalls which can strike with little or no warning and quickly cause roads to become snow covered. Heavy squalls also can cause whiteout conditions, virtually eliminating a driver’s visibility. During squalls or whiteout conditions, do not stop on the roadway as this could cause a chain-reaction collision. Come to a complete stop only when you can safely get as far off the road as possible or when there is a safe area to do so.
Additionally, motorists who are traveling during times of snow or sleet should remember the following safety advice:
– Leave early to ensure you have extra time to make the trip.
– Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the conditions.
– Turn on your headlights.
– Stay in your lane.
– Increase your following distance.
– Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient.
– Reduce in-car distractions since your full attention is required.
– Use defroster and wipers.
– Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
– Do not pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a vehicle that is following too closely.
Give ample room for plow truck drivers to treat the roadways and never pass between two trucks operating in a plow line.
Always buckle up and never drink and drive.
While PennDOT recommends not traveling during winter storms, motorists can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles by visiting http://http://www.511PA.com.
PennDOT reminds motorists to pack an emergency kit for their vehicles. A basic kit should include non-perishable food, water, blanket, small shovel and warm clothes. When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should take into account special needs of passengers such as baby food, pet supplies or medications and pack accordingly.
