DPS URGES CAUTION ON ROADWAYS AMID FREEZING CONDITIONS

  

DPS officials urge drivers to take precautions and stay safe with icy roads and hazardous conditions across the region.

Roadways are expected to be unsafe for several days, and officers say drivers should avoid getting onto the roads if they are able to do so.

If driving is necessary, DPS Sergeant Erik Burse said drivers should stay safe and alert, while keeping their speed and their distance from other vehicles at the forefront of their minds.

Sgt. Burse said speed limit signs are for ideal conditions only, and the safest thing for drivers to do is to decrease their speed.  He said they should approach curbs, hills, and dark spots on the road very slowly, but try to avoid them altogether.  In addition, leaving extra space between other vehicles will give drivers more time to maneuver and potentially avoid impact.

The equipment that drivers keep on hand is also vitally important.  Sgt. Burse said to check the condition of the vehicle before beginning to drive, in order to make sure the tires and battery are working properly.  Drivers should also take items like antifreeze, jumper cables, and flares in case of an emergency, and bring along gloves, socks and a blanket in case they get stuck or stranded.

Sgt. Burse also said to pay attention to local media outlets and weather stations to see if their destination is accessible, and thanked them for working to keep the community informed.

A map of conditions on Texas roadways is available at www.drivetexas.org.  Some counties also offer individual tracking of road conditions.

Click below to hear comments from DPS Sergeant Stephen Woodard on road safety during inclement winter weather.