Motorists advised to monitor weather for changing road conditions

March 2, 2012

511 Traveler Information System will provide up-to-date information on road conditions

Severe winter weather with heavy snowfall is expected in a band extending from the southwestern corner of the state through the Fox Valley with the most intense conditions expected to occur during evening rush hours in the Madison, Milwaukee and Fox Valley areas. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is advising travelers the winter storm will affect highway conditions, including travel on the Interstate system through the southern half and northeastern parts of the state. Travelers are strongly encouraged to complete their trips prior to the periods of heaviest snowfall or to wait to travel until after the storm has subsided.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT) State Traffic Operations Center and Wisconsin State Patrol will be monitoring conditions on the state’s highways and will be updating road conditions on the state’s 511 Traveler Information System as often as necessary to ensure travelers have the best information available as the conditions change. Motorists can dial 511 or go to www.511wi.gov to get the latest information on road conditions on main routes across Wisconsin. If you are involved in a crash, run off the road or become stranded, call 911.

WisDOT encourages drivers to slow down, buckle up and pay attention for changing conditions. Other tips for driving in winter weather include:

• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving.
• Go slow. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows.
• Watch for slippery bridge decks which ice up sooner than pavement.
• Don't use the cruise control in wintry conditions.
• Don't get overconfident in a 4x4 vehicle.
• Look farther ahead in traffic than normal.

For more information, contact:
Wisconsin DOT, Office of Public Affairs
(608) 266-3581 (until 4:30 p.m.)

State Patrol Regional Offices
www.dot.wisconsin.gov/about/locate/sp/offices.htm