DOTD readies as wintery mix affects central Louisiana; motorists advised to use caution
Thursday, February 06, 2014 at 12:05:00 PM
BATON ROUGE – Due to current weather conditions sparking a wintry mix throughout central Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists to use extra caution when driving.

DOTD emergency personnel are deployed, and crews are monitoring weather forecasts and conditions and are responding to severe weather conditions. In addition, DOTD crews have checked supply inventories and are prepared to:

• Apply de-icing materials over any affected priority bridges and roadways
• Close any roads, if needed

All efforts will be made to keep major corridors open in the event of snow or ice. When a bridge or roadway is deemed unsafe, it will be closed.

During winter weather conditions, motorists should not drive unless they have to. Motorists who do drive should follow these five 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.
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.

Citizens can get the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions by using the 511 Traveler Information System simply 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.

Motorists can also obtain information regarding road closures by contacting DOTD’s Customer Service Center at 1-877-4LA-DOTD (1-877-452-3683). The center is open 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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.