Statewide travel advisory

March 4, 2013

The Statewide Traffic Operations Center and WisDOT reminds motorists in Wisconsin to plan for hazardous road conditions statewide as the winter storm approaches, and advises that severe weather conditions may inhibit the ability to reach stranded motorists during periods of the storm.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for much of Wisconsin from Monday night through Tuesday night.

Snow fall is expected to occur throughout Tuesday with totals of 6 to 12 inches predicted across most of western and southern Wisconsin, along with blowing and drifting snow. As snow falls, travel on area freeways and roadways will become increasingly hazardous. Motorists may want to cancel or delay travel plans on Tuesday.

Motorists are advised that visibility and varying road conditions will be challenging throughout the day, and that the maximum legal speed limit is in place for good or ideal conditions. Motorists are advised to reduce speed when road conditions are hazardous and there is reduced visibility. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), including the Wisconsin State Patrol, will closely monitor road conditions as the storm moves into the various regions.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advises that travelers check winter road conditions before leaving home by calling 5-1-1 or visiting Wisconsin 511 online.

If you must drive during the storm please be prepared:

• Plan ahead and allow plenty of extra time for travel.
• Drive at a safe and legal speed for conditions (The 55 or 65 mph speed limit is a maximum speed for times when conditions are good/ideal, not for when roads are slippery and visibility is reduced.)
• Drive alert and sober.
• Do not use cruise control in wintry conditions.
• Always wear seatbelts.
• Keep a charged cell phone handy. Keep both hands on the wheel while driving.
• Keep at least a half a tank of gas in your vehicle.
• Make sure friends and family members know your travel plans and when you should arrive.

Additional winter driving tips can be found on the WisDOT web site.

For more information, contact:
Wisconsin State Patrol posts