DOTD strongly discourages non-essential travel, road conditions expected to deteriorate overnight
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development warns motorists to restrict their travel to only essential movement, as the impacts of the recent winter storm continue overnight Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Any melting that occurred during the day today will re-freeze as we move into the evening and nighttime hours, creating extremely slick conditions. People who are unnecessarily on the road pose a risk to workers, emergency personnel, themselves, and fellow motorists.
DOTD crews in the northern regions continue their round-the-clock operations, working 12 hour shifts in the brutal temperatures. It’s important to understand that as a general rule, DOTD treats only the bridges & overpasses with de-icing material such as salt or brine, not the roadways themselves.
As always, DOTD will work to keep priority routes open, such as interstates and major U.S. highways. However, drivers should not be on the roadway during hazardous driving conditions.
If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists should adhere to the following driving tips:
- Drive slowly and carefully.
- Avoid driving while distracted.
- Always allow for extra time.
- Avoid using cruise control.
- Reduce speeds when visibility is low.
- Leave plenty of room between vehicles.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Be on the lookout for DOTD crews and other emergency responders and equipment.
- Remember that it’s unlawful and unsafe to drive around a ‘road closed’ barricade for any reason.
- Put blankets or warm clothing in your vehicle, along with water and snacks in the event you get stranded.
For the most up-to-date road status information, DOTD offers motorists various resources:
- MyDOTD: Motorists can receive automatic and up-to-date information on local projects, lane and road closures, and other DOTD activity by signing up for MyDOTD at www.dotd.la.gov.
- 511 Traveler Information: Travelers can also find information regarding road closures by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or by downloading the Louisiana 511 mobile app.
- Social Media: Find DOTD on social media for updates and information. Like us on Facebook and follow us on X (Twitter).
DOTD crews treat the LA 511 (Jimmie Davis) bridge over the Red River
in Caddo & Bossier Parishes. (Source: DOTD)
Winter weather impacts LA 3094 (MLK Jr. Drive) in Shreveport, Caddo Parish. (Source: DOTD)
DOTD crews treat a hill on US 71 (Market Street) in Shreveport, Caddo Parish. (Source: DOTD)
Winter weather impacts LA 1 (Youree Drive) in Shreveport, Caddo Parish. (Source: DOTD)