Texas Crews To Pretreat Roads, Icy Driving Tips

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Department of Transportation is getting ready for potential icing on roads ahead of New Year's Eve, according to a press release. They plan to begin Wednesday night after 8 p.m.

Crews will begin by pretreating I-35, then move on to other major highways in the area. Pretreating a dry road helps keep the snow from sticking to the pavement, making it much safer. The Dec. 28 press release said teams will be on stand by to respond to dangerous conditions as they arise.

The Texas Department of Transportation is asking all motorist to follow these guidelines:

• Only drive, if absolutely necessary.
• Use caution when driving over bridges and overpasses. These are the first to freeze.
• Reduce speed and drive with caution. A vehicle needs at least three times more space to stop on a slick roadway. Do not apply the brakes suddenly, and avoid using cruise control, so that you can respond better if you encounter slippery roads.
• Slow down when approaching emergency or maintenance vehicles, especially when their flashing lights are on. The law requires you to maintain a distance of at least 200 feet when approaching a snow plow, and do not pass on the right. Visibility can also be reduced during winter weather conditions.
• Be patient. Your trip time – including short commutes to work – could increase when adverse weather conditions exist. Also, keep to the main roads and avoid taking shortcuts through territory that may not have been treated.
• Winterize vehicles before traveling during adverse weather. Check fuel, tire, oil and antifreeze levels. Make sure heater, brakes and windshield wipers are working properly.
• Check area weather conditions on radio or television before starting a trip.

For real-time roadway conditions, check DriveTexas.org.

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