WRIC Richmond News and Weather - VDOT: Black Ice Reported On Highways

VDOT: Black Ice Reported On Highways

VDOT has issued the following release regarding the roads in Central Virginia:

CULPEPER – Black ice is being reported on Interstate 64 in Albemarle and Louisa counties and motorists are warned to be extremely careful and expect to encounter slick conditions while driving this morning. Several crashes have been reported on I-64 involving ice and freezing conditions are likely on other highways across the area as well.

Crews from the Virginia Department of Transportation are responding to those reports of ice and will spread sand and salt to improve traction and help melt the ice. Motorists should reduce speed and increase the distance from other vehicles to provide more time to react to unexpected conditions. Icing is most likely on bridge decks and overpasses, entrance and exit ramps, crossovers and intersections and roads at higher elevations like the mountain passes on I-64 and Route 250 in Albemarle County, Route 33 in Greene, Route 211 and Route 522 in Rappahannock and I-66 and Route 50 in Fauquier.

Real-time road conditions and weather forecasts are available on VDOT's traffic and travel Web site, www.511Virginia.org. The site also has live traffic camera images for many major highways, including I-64 and Routes 29 and 250 in Central Virginia. Motorists can call 511 from any telephone in Virginia for road and traffic conditions on all major highways in the state.

Once conditions improve VDOT offers the following tips for driving in winter weather:

 ~ Before you begin your trip, know the current road conditions and weather forecasts.

 ~ Make sure your windows, mirrors and lights are clear of ice and snow.

 ~ Always wear your seat belt.

 ~ Allow extra time to travel to your destination.

 ~ Be aware of potentially icy areas such as bridges, overpasses and shady spots. Also, if there is heavy snow, ice or high winds, be alert to potential driving hazards including downed branches, trees and electric lines.

 ~ Reduce speed as appropriate and keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and snowplows.

 ~ Do not pass a snowplow unless it is absolutely necessary. Remember, the plow is clearing a path for you.

 ~ Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car. The kit should include a small bag of rock salt, sand or cat litter to provide traction in case you get stuck, a snowbrush and ice scraper, a flashlight, battery booster cables, a blanket and extra clothing.

 ~ Practice common sense. Remember that your car cannot start, stop, or turn as quickly and surely on snow or ice as it does on dry pavement, so think and drive accordingly