ALDOT Gives Safety Tips For Holiday Travel Amid Winter Weather Threat

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Alabama Department of Transportation on Wednesday provided travel safety tips for those taking to the roads over the holidays amid the looming threat of freezing conditions.

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ALDOT says the arrival Thursday night of precipitation and plunging temperatures, especially in the northern two-thirds of the state, could cause ALDOT’s pre-treatment and response treatment efforts on roads and bridges to be minimally effective.

Additionally, ALDOT cited current forecasts saying officials anticipate precipitation and sustained sub-freezing temperatures to be a challenge in much of north Alabama.

ALDOT then said in the areas where the most severe impacts are expected, pre-treatment of state, U.S. and interstate highways and bridges began Wednesday morning and are expected to continue through Thursday afternoon.

Motorists needing information on road conditions are asked to follow local news media
and to visit ALGOtraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app available online.

ALDOT officials also suggested that motorists should not text or use a mobile device while operating a vehicle.

Travel safety tips

• Plan your route and check the weather forecast before you head out.
• Make sure your vehicle is in good working order, with adequate tire tread and proper fluid levels.
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including jumper cables, blankets, extra warm clothing, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a cell phone charger.
• Slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Increase your following distance to account for slippery roads.
• Avoid using cruise control in slippery conditions.
• Use your headlights to increase visibility and be seen by other drivers. Don’t let winter weather catch you off guard. Plan ahead and stay weather-aware by monitoring the news and the National Weather Service in your area for the latest weather information.

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