In addition to staying warm as a winter storm pushes into the Deep South, residents should use caution while driving. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency advises citizens to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions, including snow and ice that could create hazardous travel conditions.
“We recognize that winter weather can present unique challenges for our Alabama communities, especially in those areas where snow and ice are rare,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Our main goal is to keep our citizens safe. Reducing unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring first responders can perform their duties efficiently.”
Be careful when driving in freezing weather
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During Alabama’s last major weather event, ALEA troops responded to 80 traffic accidents involving weather conditions. This does not include vehicles that have been removed from ditches due to weather conditions or have been left stranded on the side of the road without damage.
“ALEA stands ready to assist and respond to emergencies as the situation evolves,” said Col. Jonathan Archer, director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety. “Once again, we will have all available forces on standby, including forces assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division to assist our Highway Patrol Division and respond to traffic accidents, road closures and assist with traffic control in hard-hit areas. However, we strongly encourage citizens to stay off the roads if conditions in your area become dangerous.”
Driving tips to reduce risks during winter storms
As National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts indicate significant impacts to the central and southern portions of the state, ALEA encourages the following driving precautions:
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Avoid unnecessary travel: If you don’t have to be on the road, stay home. Conditions can deteriorate quickly.
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Keep an eye on weather updates: Check local weather reports before you go.
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Prepare your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is winterized. Check the tires, battery, wiper blades and fluids. Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight.
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Drive slowly and carefully: reduce your speed, increase the distance between your vehicle and others, and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. In addition, avoid using cruise control as steering sensitivity may change on slippery roads, resulting in loss of vehicle control.
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Stay alert: Monitor your surroundings and look for ice on bridges, overpasses and shady areas, which can freeze more quickly than other surfaces.
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Be aware of road signs: if authorities have closed roads or issued travel restrictions, heed these warnings.
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Use headlights: When visibility is poor, make sure your headlights are on and keep them clean to improve visibility for you and other drivers.
Snow grooves cleared by motorists are seen on Mormon Road in Tuscaloosa County on January 10.
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Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel talks about what there is to do in the river region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Winter storm Alabama: ALEA warns of driving hazards due to snow and ice