PennDOT Urges Motorists to Prepare, Drive with Extra Caution During Squalls

Weather forecasters are predicting the chance for blinding snow squalls tomorrow as an arctic front is expected to cross Pennsylvania. PennDOT is urging drivers to slow down, pay attention and use caution on area roadways, especially during snow squalls that are possible in the region tomorrow.

If snow squalls do impact the area, motorists need to be alert for rapidly changing road and weather conditions. Also, heavy squalls can cause whiteout conditions, virtually eliminating a driver's visibility.

PennDOT offers this advice:

*Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the conditions.
*Turn on your headlights.
*Stay in your lane.
*Increase your following distance.
*Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient.
*Reduce in-car distractions since your full attention is required.
*Use defroster and wipers.
*Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
*During whiteouts, come to a complete stop only when you can safely get as far off the road as possible or when there is a safe area to do so.
*Do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could create a chain-reaction collision.
*Do not pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a vehicle that is following too closely.
*Always buckle up and never drink and drive.

PennDOT reminds motorists that state law requires drivers to turn on their headlights anytime their vehicles wipers are in continuous or intermittent use due to weather or other atmospheric conditions such as fog or mist. Motorists who do not comply with the law could face a fine of $25, but with fees and other associated costs, the penalty would approach $100.

PennDOT reminds motorists they can log on to 511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions before heading out.