The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) reminds travelers, that while State roads are clear and beginning to dry, caution is still needed as icy spots may develop as the day continues and the temperatures drop, causing melted snow to refreeze. Drivers should keep speeds down and allow extra braking distance as just a small icy spot is all it takes to create an unsafe situation.
“Our crews did a fantastic job of clearing the State roads quickly on Tuesday and we appreciate that many people heeded the warnings to delay travel, which made a difference in our operations,” said SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters. “With temperatures expected to stay well below freezing for the next several days, we ask motorists to plan ahead for the next round of snow that looks like it could impact travel during the day on Wednesday into Wednesday night, potentially making the evening commute problematic.”
SHA maintains the numbered roads in Maryland with the exception of those on Baltimore City or tolled roads (including the ICC, I-95 north of Baltimore City, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge etc…). For those who wish to inquire about non-state roads, a list of County roads departments is here, http://roads.maryland.gov/index.aspx?pageid=9
SHA monitors traffic 24/7 at the Statewide Operations Center near BWI Marshall Airport. As we monitor the weather, crews will get rest and return to prepare equipment for the next winter event. SHA offers these tips for safe travel:
• Before heading out, remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof. Snow that flies off of vehicles is extremely hazardous for those around you and could cause a driver to lose control.
• Always be alert for ice, even when roads look clear. With temperatures expected to stay below freezing this week any snow melt could refreeze especially during the overnight hours.
• Know Before You Go! Visit www.MD511.org to view traffic cameras and obtain traffic and weather information. Customers may call 511 for traffic information using a hands-free mobile device or land line.
• Make sure you vehicle has proper fluid levels, inflated tires, gas, a charged mobile phone, kitty litter, shovel and ice scraper.
• Allow extra travel time – speed limits are set for ideal conditions, so traveling below the limit is recommended for foul weather situations.