VDOT preps for winter weather, drivers also encouraged to prepare

As the brightly colored leaves drop off trees, that means snowy weather is not far away. The Virginia Department of Transportation is stocked and ready for the winter ahead, and motorists are partners in making the season a safe one.

VDOT has equipment, materials and staffing in place for the first wintery weather forecast so that it can provide roadway treatment and plowing as weather requires.

“With winter weather ahead, preparation, planning and coordination are essential,” VDOT Chief of Maintenance and Operations Kevin Gregg said. “Since the end of last winter, VDOT has been planning and preparing its crews for when the first snowflakes fall so that we can maintain the roadways and keep travelers safe and on the move. It’s not just VDOT that should be preparing, but the public as well, so check your tires, wiper blades and anti-freeze and make sure you’re ready for inclement winter weather.”

VDOT is responsible for clearing snow from nearly 60,000 miles of state-maintained roads. Throughout October, VDOT conducted training exercises to test equipment and make sure that snowplow drivers are familiar with their routes. During the annual dry runs, snowplow drivers rode their routes, checked for obstacles they may encounter before an actual snow event and made sure the equipment was in working order.

Drivers should be prepared for every trip behind the wheel, but winter weather can create even more challenging road conditions. If possible, stay off the roads during severe winter weather and wait until conditions improve. Staying home eliminates the risk of a crash and helps keep the roads clear for first responders and snowplow drivers.

Drivers should make sure their vehicles are ready for winter weather. Check brakes and tires, antifreeze, de-icing washer fluid, headlights, tail and brake lights and oil. Before the first snowfall, Virginians should prepare an emergency winter driving kit with items such as jumper cables, ice scraper, blanket, phone charger and first aid kit.

Travelers are urged to know before they go. During winter, regularly monitor weather forecasts, anticipated travel impacts and road conditions prior to hitting the road. Motorists are encouraged to use VDOT’s free mobile 511 app, visit 511virginia.org or call 511 from any phone in Virginia to get up-to-date information on road and traffic conditions.