Amid today’s forecasts calling for possible snow and ice, officials from the Georgia Department of Transportation say they are monitoring weather forecasts and road conditions and will respond accordingly and specifically target areas vulnerable to freezing, like hills, ramps, bridges and interchanges.
GDOT officials on Thursday released several tips for drivers who have to hit the roads amid tonight’s wintry conditions. Drivers who have to navigate the roads amid the winter weather are urged to:
- Be particularly aware of black ice conditions on surfaces such as bridge decks and entrance and exit ramps late tonight and the early hours of tomorrow morning.
- Remember that technology helps, but only to a point. Four-wheel drive, anti-lock brakes and traction control are beneficial advancements in today's cars, trucks and SUVs, but they can't take the place of good driving habits and the need to reduce speed on snowy or icy roads.
- If you see snowplows ahead on the road, slow down and stay behind them. The road behind the plow will be the safest place to drive. Allow at least 10 car lengths between your vehicle and snowplows or hopper spreaders.
- Do not pass the snowplows. The plows are wide, and sometimes a group of trucks will work in tandem to clear snow quickly, especially on major highways.
Drivers can call 511 or visit www.georgia-navigator.com to get current information on road conditions. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, such as traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather. Callers also can transfer to operators to request assistance or report incidents 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More information is available at www.511ga.org.
