DOTD prepares for winter weather
Thursday, December 07, 2017 at 3:54:36 PM
BATON ROUGE, La. – Due to threat of winter weather tonight through Friday, DOTD crews will monitor state bridges and roadways as the temperature gets closer to freezing and will apply de-icing agents as necessary. DOTD will be coordinating with State Police to determine if bridges and roadways are safe for travel, and bridges or roadways will be closed if they are deemed unsafe.
DOTD has de-icing agents and equipment ready, if necessary, and personnel will be on duty in an effort to keep priority winter weather state routes open.
During winter weather conditions, DOTD suggests motorists follow these seven safety tips:
1. Drive slowly, carefully, and avoid driving while distracted.
2. Allow for extra driving time.
3. Reduce speeds when visibility is low.
4. Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles.
5. Look out for black ice-a thin, transparent layer of ice accumulation that can be visually hard to detect on bridges, overpasses, off-ramps and in shady spots.
6. Don’t drive impaired.
7. Wear your seat belt.
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions by going to www.511la.org. You can also download the 511la.org app to your smartphone or use the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from your telephone and saying the route or region where you are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at http://www.511la.org