Sunday, February 26, 2012

MN DOT road update

BEMIDJI, Minn.— (11:30 am) The Minnesota Department of Transportation advises no unnecessary travel in the northwest area of the state due to blowing heavy snow and reduced visibility.

MnDOT snow plow operators are doing their part to make highways safe. If you do need to travel motorists should remember to:

• Check road conditions at www.511mn.org or call 511; it takes time to get roads back to good driving conditions.
• Headlights on for visibility to other drivers.
• Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
• Stay back at least five car lengths behind the plow, far from the snow cloud.
• Stay alert for snowplows that turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They may also travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions. Snowplows typically move at slower speeds.

For additional tips on safe winter driving, go to www.mndot.gov/workzone.

For updated information on road conditions, call 511 or click on www.511mn.org.