MONTPELIER - - The Agency of Transportation wants to remind Vermont motorist to use caution with the up coming winter season.
Most important is to slow down during winter weather conditions. The suggested maximum driving speed during a winter storm on the Interstate system is 45 MPH – with 40 MPH on primary state highways, and 35 MPH on rural or lightly traveled state highways. And remember, what may appear as bare pavement may be icy during winter weather conditions. Traveling too to fast for conditions places you, your passengers, and motorists around you at unnecessary risk. We recommend allowing for extra stopping distance between vehicles during wet, snow or slushy road conditions. Be aware that roadways in higher elevations, over bridges, and in some valleys, will freeze before other locations. Allowing extra travel time will get you to your destination safely and on time.
Agency Secretary Neale Lunderville notes, “Our job isn’t only to maintain our roads during the winter season, it’s also to communicate with Vermonters to assist in ensuring they travel safely. I ask that you please be vigilant for slow moving snow removal equipment and other emergency vehicles. Plow drivers everywhere appreciate those who leave plenty of room for them to maneuver and do their work.”
In addition to driving recommendations, Agency staff highlights that a properly equipped vehicle is essential. Preparation for winter driving includes equipping your vehicle with winter snow tires, functioning wipers and windshield washers, working heaters and defrosters, properly adjusted brakes and headlights, a healthy battery, and snow brushes and ice scrapers. Clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle, including windows, hood, roof and trunk, is highly recommended. Accumulated snow and ice could impair vision or blow off and cause problems for other drivers. Also consider a winter emergency kit containing booster cables, blankets, flashlight, spare batteries, candles, matches, extra winter clothing, a snow shovel and traction material such as sand.
Vermont motorists can also take advantage of Vermont’s 511 travel information system this winter for travel conditions. Using the system is easy: simply dial 511 from your cell phone or go to the Web at www.511vt.com or www.511vt.org. This system provides travel information about road conditions, weather, construction, accidents or any major delays that may be occurring. With this tool you will have the most current information regarding what lies ahead for your travel and be best equipped to plan accordingly.
The 511 system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no charge to land-based callers, however, normal airtime and roaming charges will apply to wireless callers. It is recommended that users monitor the system frequently as weather and road conditions are apt to change quickly.
