SHA Asks Motorists to Stay Off Roads Monday Evening

The State Highway Administration has issued this weather-related statement to motorists:

After several days of spring-like temperatures, Maryland is reminded that winter is not yet over, as weather forecasts predict snow returning to the area beginning Monday evening and continuing overnight.

The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) is preparing with salt, plows and crews to clear roads as quickly and safely as possible. Pre-treatment of roads is not feasible; rain washes salt brine away.

“If you have a choice not to travel tonight, please don’t,” said SHA administrator Neil J. Pedersen. “Our crews will work throughout the night, but depending on when it stops snowing, all routes may not be completely cleared by morning rush hour.  Please check conditions before driving in the morning and allow plenty of extra travel time.”

Log on to www.roads.maryland.gov and click “CHART” to view traffic cameras, road conditions and incidents along major routes.  If you must travel during the storm, here are some additional recommendations:

•        Fill your gas tank and windshield washer fluid.
•        Clear your car of snow so that you see and be seen by other drivers.
•        Make sure your cell phone is charged.
•        Have a flashlight with charged batteries, sand or kitty litter, and a small shovel in case you get stuck in snow.
•        Make sure your all season radials or snow tires are properly inflated and are in good condition.
•        Make sure your vehicle’s windshield wipers are working.
•        Tell someone the route you are taking in case of an emergency.
•        While traveling, give snow plows plenty of room.  The plowed road is behind the trucks, so stay well back and drive on a cleared road.

More information regarding preparedness can be found at www.mema.state.md.us under “Be Prepared,” then on the link for Winter Storms.

SHA owns and maintains all non-toll, numbered roads in Maryland's 23 counties such as I-495 (Capital Beltway), MD 355 (Rockville Pike) and US 40 (Baltimore National Pike). Roads without a number are maintained by the county or municipality.  The Transportation Authority maintains toll roads and bridges.

Using SHA’s website, www.roads.maryland.gov, travelers can report a problem on a state road by clicking on “Contact Us” and following the instructions for reporting a non-emergency situation or making a service request. Numbers to call about local roads can also be found through the “Contact Us” page.

As always, SHA reminds motorists to buckle up, reduce speed and pay attention.  Texting and using hand-held cell phones while driving is illegal in Maryland.