RICHMOND, Va. — As winter weather continues to affect the region, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued a warning to drivers in Richmond to exercise extreme caution on the roads. Crews have been dispatched to address hazardous conditions caused by this week’s snow and freezing temperatures. With the roads still wet and temperatures expected to drop overnight, there is an increased risk of icy conditions.
Austin Anderson, Richmond District infrastructure manager with VDOT, stressed the importance of staying off the roads if possible. “Tonight and tomorrow morning could be tricky for drivers,” Anderson said. “We ask motorists to stay home, but if they must drive, they should use the utmost caution. Assume that any wet pavement could be slick. Air temperatures will be low tonight, and any pavement that has not had the chance to dry could become icy.”
VDOT officials are urging drivers to remain especially vigilant near high water and ponding, as well as on bridges, ramps, and overpasses—areas that are prone to freezing faster.
To help motorists navigate the winter weather safely, VDOT has shared several tips for driving in snowy and icy conditions:
- Stay indoors when possible. The safest place during a winter storm is indoors, and it’s best to plan travel around the storm rather than during it.
- Watch the temperature. Driving becomes most dangerous when the temperature is at or below freezing (32°F). When roads are wet and the temperature is freezing, ice is likely to form, particularly on shaded areas and elevated surfaces like bridges and ramps.
- Slow down. Even when roads have been treated, drivers should reduce their speed. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least a five-second gap between vehicles, especially behind snowplows that are clearing the road.
- Don’t brake if you skid. If you begin to skid, take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, which could worsen the situation.
- Give snowplows plenty of space. VDOT advises drivers to keep at least 100 feet between their vehicle and snowplows and to refrain from passing them on the road.
- Avoid parking on streets. To help snowplows do their job, drivers are advised not to park along the street, as parked vehicles can block the path and hinder plowing efforts.
In addition to these driving tips, VDOT encourages residents to report any road hazards or ask questions about road conditions by calling their 24-hour Customer Service Center at 800-367-7623.
With winter weather in full force, VDOT continues to monitor conditions and deploy crews to ensure the safety of Virginia’s roads. However, authorities emphasize that drivers can help keep the roads safer by staying off them when conditions are dangerous and following winter driving precautions.
