MDOT SHA Logo
(January 26, 2015) – The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) reminds motorists that a mix of sleet, snow and rain will affect afternoon and evening travel. Plan ahead now for rush hour and evening commutes; forecasters continue to call for the possibility of colder temperatures and active snow bands throughout much of the State. The best advice is to avoid travel during uncertain weather conditions. If you must travel keep in mind that visibility can be dramatically reduced, so be sure to turn your headlights on when your wipers are on. Not only will it help you to see, but help you to be seen by others.
As road crews respond to today’s winter storm, please keep these other important travel tips in mind:
• Remember – bridges, ramps and overpasses freeze first. Use caution as temperatures are two to three degrees colder than non-elevated surfaces when driving across them.
• Delay travel if possible, and if you have to travel, plan for extra time to reach your destination.
• If driving behind a snow plow or salt truck, provide plenty of space (at least 7-8 car lengths) behind the truck.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles are just as vulnerable to slipping on ice as regular two-wheel drive vehicles.
• Clear snow and ice from your vehicle’s headlights, roof and from other places that may obstruct vision or become a danger to other motorists.
The latest free traffic and weather information is available by calling 5-1-1 from a landline or a hands-free mobile device or logging onto
www.MD511.org. Maryland’s 511 service now offers free text and email alerts for most frequented routes through 511Direct – simply register and set your routes and preferences on-line.
# # #