Snow is falling in West-Central Indiana this morning, impacting the commute into work.
Drivers are urged to slow down, drive safely, and make room for plow trucks that are clearing snow and ice from the roadways.
City, town, and Indiana Department of Transportation officials say their top priority in such weather events is to clear roads of snow and ice and keep motorists safe.
Forecasts predicted snowfall to begin falling early Friday as many motorists hit the roads for the morning rush. As expected, there were numerous slideoffs and accidents early today throughout central Indiana.
The snow is expected to let up as the day goes on, but roadways and parking lots will still be slick this evening.
Low temperatures make salt less effective at melting snow and ice, so snow accumulation is expected to create slushy conditions on roadways.
Following are some tips that motorists are asked to remember:
- Accelerate gradually on ice or snow to avoid slipping and sliding;
- Drive slowly and carefully to avoid rear-end collisions and sliding on curves;
- Allow greater distance behind the car ahead, as it takes more time to stop on snow and ice;
- Brake early, break slowly, never slam on the brakes; if you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it; if you don’t, gently pump the pedal;
- Don’t use cruise control; avoid abrupt steering maneuvers;
- Maintain good visibility, stay alert, and use your headlights so others can see you;
- Give snowplows room to operate; don’t tailgate or try to pass;
- Leave early to get to your destination so you’re not trying to hurry and pressure other motorists into speeding up for you.
Motorists can track road conditions across the state online at www.trafficwise.in.gov. The website is updated during snow events to let motorists know if road conditions are good, fair, or difficult. The same information is available by calling 800-261-ROAD (7623).
For social media updates during winter weather, visit the website at www.facebook.com/INDOT_WestCentral and http://twitter.com/INDOT_WCentral.RTATION.
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