Central Missourians can breathe a sigh of relief for escaping the wrath of Winter Storm Jonas, now pummeling portions of the East Coast.
Motorists understand, however, that it doesn't take large quantities of snow, ice or wintry mix to make roadways slick and treacherous. Even the series of modest snowfalls experienced here have required motorists to adjust their safe driving strategy.
Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) officials urge greater caution when road conditions are slick and snowy.
During winter storms, the best option is to avoid traveling at all.
For motorists who must travel, avoid driving during peak travel times whenever your schedule allows flexibility. Motorists can anticipate conditions along their route by checking the Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org or by calling MoDOT's customer service center 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (888-275-6636). The toll-free phone line is answered 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
When driving in snowy conditions, MoDOT encourages drivers to:
• Slow down and be particularly careful crossing bridges and overpasses, which usually experience freezing conditions first.
• Steer and brake gently.
• Accelerate slowly at intersections.
• Allow plenty of following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
• Stay back 100 feet behind snow plows that may be spreading salt. Do not pass snow plows even when on a multi-lane road.
Caution and patience will help motorists navigate safety in winter weather, even when it does not rise to blizzard conditions or prompt state of emergency declarations.