INDOT Advises Motorist Be Careful On Roadways
Current forecasts are calling for accumulating snowfall to continue moving across most of Indiana and lasting through the evening. Motorists should be prepared for snow and slush on highways during the peak commute hours as one to three inches of accumulation is predicted across most of the state at this time. Slightly higher accumulation totals are expected across north-central Indiana.
Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) crews continue monitoring developing forecasts, and a full callout of trucks will begin treating highways this afternoon after precipitation begins and before pavement and bridge temperatures fall below freezing.
Temperatures are expected to drop very quickly throughout the night, and strong wind gusts may create problems with blowing snow, especially in open areas. The combination of precipitation, low temperatures and blowing snow can cause road surfaces to quickly refreeze. INDOT will adjust its deployment of manpower, trucks and materials as appropriate to address changes in forecasted and observed road conditions.
Motorists should be aware of the potential for reduced visibility and slick roadways and adjust their driving to the conditions they encounter. Each INDOT plow route takes 2-3 hours to complete with salt assisting in melting between passes.
Know before you go by checking the red-yellow-green traffic speeds on your mobile map app or INDOT’s TrafficWise service at indot.carsprogram.org, (800) 261-ROAD or 511 on your mobile phone.
- Choose direct routes instead of longer routes on higher-speed arterials.
- Take your foot off the gas and slow down gradually, especially on high-speed highways.
- No one should be traveling at interstate speeds during these conditions.
- Turn off cruise control.
- Apply anti-lock brakes firmly. Pump brakes that are not anti-lock.
- Do not overcorrect with steering.
For updates during the storm, find the INDOT Facebook and Twitter pages for your regional district at www.in.gov/indot/3074.htm.