BATON ROUGE, La. –The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development urges motorists not to drive during the current winter weather conditions. As the cold weather and moisture continues to cross parts of Louisiana, it’s important to note that bridges and roadways may freeze and make traveling hazardous.
The department is in the process of treating some portions of the interstates and major corridors to keep them open as long as possible. However, elevated highways are especially susceptible to unsafe icing during prolonged freezing temperatures. DOTD will also concentrate efforts on major corridors.
There is not enough equipment or resources to keep all the bridges in the state open. All efforts will be made to keep the interstate system and major corridors open in the event of snow or ice. When a bridge or roadway is deemed unsafe, it will be closed.
If you must drive, use extra caution. During winter weather conditions, motorists should follow these five safety tips:
- Drive slowly, carefully, and avoid driving while distracted
- Allow for extra driving time
- Reduce speeds when visibility is low
- Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles
- 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.
As always, DOTD reminds motorists to buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving. In addition, motorists need to be on the look-out for DOTD work vehicles applying de-icing material to area bridges and overpasses.
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they 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 www.511la.org.
Additionally, motorists can utilize the new "Way to Geaux" application to receive real-time, around the clock travel alerts. The hands-free, eyes-free smartphone application can be downloaded on any iPhone or Android device by visiting either the iTunes App Store, or Google Play.