PITTSBURGH (100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA) — With snow in the forecast, PennDOT is taking advantage of the opportunity to remind motorists of the potential dangers of traveling on snow-covered roads or during a snowstorm.
While it might seem like common sense, PennDOT is advising drivers to stay on guard while driving through winter conditions.
Snow squalls can be fickle; they can show up out of nowhere, that is to say.
If a driver were to find themselves amid a snowstorm suddenly, PennDOT has some advice on how to handle it.
Sometimes storms can shoot out snow so fast that a whiteout can occur.
And a whiteout can drastically reduce a person's visibility while on the road.
While that's a more extreme scenario, PennDOT is offering the following guidelines for safely traversing snowstorms or snowy roads:
1. Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits conditions.
2. Turn on your headlights.
3. Stay in your lane and increase your following distance.
4. Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible, and be patient.
5. Do not drive distracted; your full attention is required.
6. Use your defroster and wipers.
7. Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
8. During whiteouts, come to a complete stop only when you can safely pull off the roadway.
9. Do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could cause a chain-reaction collision.
10. Do not pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a vehicle that is following too closely.
11. Always buckle up and never drive impaired.
Beyond these tips, PennDOT is also asking drivers to be wary of deceptive road appearances.
Frozen roads might look clear but still harbor potential pitfalls even if they're not apparent to the naked eye.
These dangers include crystal clear ice; sometimes, it can be difficult to discern a wet road as opposed to one covered in ice.
Also, keep in mind that snow poses a threat while it's falling, even if the streets don't seem to be heavily impacted.
It's recommended that drivers even take extra precautions when traveling over bridges or elevated ramps.
PennDOT is asking motorists to be mindful of snow-plowing trucks and to give them enough room — don't try to pass them, either.
Drivers can check on road conditions by navigating to the 511 PA website.
And more winter safety tips can be found on the PennDOT website.
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