The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority is providing driving tips ahead of the potential winter weather Green Country is expecting for tomorrow.
“It’s important to be prepared when winter weather conditions hit,” Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation and OTA Executive Director Tim Gatz said. “OTA looks to maintain a safe transportation system for all of Oklahoma’s drivers, so we encourage everyone to stay alert, especially around snow plows and salt trucks.”
OTA reminds everyone to practice safe driving on highways and turnpikes.
OTA says drivers should:
· Check road conditions and plan their route before heading out on highways.
· Stay at least 200 feet behind road-clearing equipment; crews need room to maneuver and can begin plowing or spreading materials without notice.
· Allow extra space between vehicles so there is an adequate distance for braking in wet and icy conditions.
· Be aware of "black ice" which looks wet on the roadway, but is actually a thin layer of ice.
· Be patient and allow extra time to reach destinations.
· Save the OTA road conditions hotline to your contacts at 1-877-403-7623.
“We also recommend that all drivers put together a winter weather emergency kit with water, blankets, jumper cables, flashlights and extra batteries,” Gatz said. “You can also stay up-to-date on road conditions and find winter weather travel tips by following our Twitter handle @OKTurnpike and Facebook page. Remember: no trip is worth risking your safety. If you are not comfortable with driving, it can always wait.”
For more information on turnpike travel, click here.
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