Motorists should plan ahead for winter driving conditions

December 5, 2013                                                               For more information: Tom Strandberg ODOT Public Information Officer

541-963-1330

 

Extreme Driving Conditions

Motorists should prepare for winter driving conditions

Travelers in eastern Oregon should plan ahead for the possibility of snowy and icy roads. Weather forecasts call for more snow, temperatures in the teens during the day and below zero at night.

 

Driving on icy roads can be dangerous. Motorists should pay attention to the weather and road forecasts and plan transportation alternatives until conditions improve.

 

Those who must travel on snowy or icy roads should:

 

Call 5-1-1 or visit www.TripCheck.com for the latest real-time traffic updates and camera views of Oregon’s highways.

 

Use chains, winter traction tires, or studded tires as needed;

 

Slow down and be prepared for slow traffic;

 

Leave extra stopping distance;

 

Maintain additional space between your vehicle and the one ahead.

 

Make sure your vehicle is stocked with the following:

 

Flashlight and cell phone (with charger);

 

Extra food and water;

 

Blankets and extra warm clothes, boots, hat and gloves;

 

Ice scraper and snow brush.

 

For additional resources on winter driving and preparedness, links to safety videos and more please visit: http://www.tinyurl.com/odot-winter   or   http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/COMM/Pages/winterdriving.aspx)

 

 

While ODOT crews will be on the roads working around the clock plowing, sanding and using anti-icing materials, motorists should expect hazardous driving conditions as severe weather persists.

 

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