Aggrostats

February 4, 2011

**Update to Winter Weather Driving Advisory**

Tonight's forecast of freezing temperatures, following a day of steady precipitation in most of our areas, may create hazardous driving conditions throughout the night and early morning hours. The Louisiana State Police wants to urge motorists to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Troop F Troopers have investigated more than a dozen crashes or public assists since the onset of this winter weather Thursday night. Most of these crashes can be attributed to excessive speed for the conditions and driver error.

Troopers are also asking that when you see emergency vehicles on the roadside, please move over and slow down for these workers. Louisiana law requires motorists to move to the farthest lane away from a stopped emergency vehicle, if possible, or slow to a reasonable speed.

We are also reminding motorists to wear their seat belts and properly restrain children. This is still the best way to reduce injury in the event of a crash.

Original Release: Winter Weather Driving Advisory
Weather forecasts for Thursday night and Friday morning indicate a strong possibility of rain and/or a sleet/snow mix in northeast Louisiana. Unfortunately, the wet precipitation on the roadways has the potential of freezing and creating “black ice,” a thin, nearly invisible coating of ice that forms on paved surfaces. This type of weather pattern can be dangerous for motorists who are traveling along Louisiana highways, as most are not accustomed to such driving conditions.

The Louisiana State Police urges motorists to keep abreast of the latest weather and travel conditions before deciding whether a trip is necessary, as rain/snow can cause bridges and overpasses to ice quickly, particularly in the evening hours when temperatures are below or near the freezing mark. If bridges and overpasses accumulate ice, the Louisiana State Police will continue to work closely with the Department of Transportation and Development to take appropriate measures.

As conditions change, motorists are reminded to always wear their seat belts correctly, use appropriate child restraints, adjust their speed and never travel faster than conditions allow. Do not drive using the cruise control in icy conditions, allow ample time to reach your destination and allow extra space between vehicles, and keep vehicle headlights on. If you should have vehicle problems, be sure to stay with your vehicle, as freezing temperatures can be life-threatening. Have a survival kit: emergency first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, high-energy or dehydrated foods, flashlight with extra batteries, extra (charged) cell phone battery, emergency flares, and bottled water.

Troop F Commander, Captain Kevin Reeves, reminds motorists “to be aware of the weather conditions in your area before deciding to get on the road. Only travel in these wintry conditions if absolutely necessary. And remember, the proper use of seat belts and child restraints is the best way to reduce injury in the event of a crash.”

This would be an excellent time to check the condition of your vehicle’s tires, battery, windshield wipers and antifreeze. Low tread on tires can cause a vehicle to lose traction in all weather conditions. Weak batteries can prevent vehicles from starting in cold weather. Anti-freeze will protect your engine and radiator from freezing up due to cold temperatures.
If you experience difficulties or witness hazardous situations while on the highway, notify your local State Police Troop office by dialing *LSP (*577) from your cell phone.

For road closure information, motorists should dial 511 or visit www.511LA.org.




Contact Information,
Trooper First Class Mark Dennis
Louisiana State Police
Troop F Public Affairs
Office: (318)345-2810