ALDOT issues black ice warning: See tips for traveling in winter weather

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is urging motorists to use extreme caution in the coming days as temperatures are expected to drop below freezing across much of the state.

These conditions significantly increase the potential for what is commonly referred to as black ice to form on bridges and roadways.

Black ice is a layer of ice that can be hard to detect on roadways, making conditions extremely treacherous and increasing crash risks.

ALDOT is staging its crews in strategic locations to treat routes and respond to incidents. However, icy patches may form on seemingly passable surfaces, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Extreme cold temperatures can make roadway treatments less effective. These temperatures could also create conditions that significantly limit the ability of ALDOT crews to treat icy roadways.

ALDOT emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety and driving according to current road conditions.

Driving tips

The best tip is to avoid the roads if possible. ALDOT urges motorists to take winter weather seriously and make safe decisions before heading out.

Even treated roadways can become hazardous, especially when rain transitions to freezing conditions.

• Avoid travel until conditions improve: Once winter precipitation begins, ALDOT urges motorists to avoid travel during adverse weather and roadway conditions.
• Slow down: If travel cannot be avoided, reduce your speed and increase your following distance, allowing extra room to stop. Plan additional travel time to reach your destination.
• Avoid sudden braking and steering: These actions can cause your vehicle to lose control.
• Turn on your headlights: This will make your vehicle more visible to other drivers.
• Avoid using cruise control on icy roads: This can cause you to lose control of your vehicle if you hydroplane.
• Watch for workers: Be aware of emergency personnel and crews treating and clearing roadways.
• Move crashed vehicles: In the event of a minor crash, safely move vehicles off the roadway if possible, to maintain access for first responders and treatment crews. Do not abandon vehicles in travel lanes.

Stay informed

Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about road conditions and visit ALDOTNews.com, ALGOTraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app, as well as follow ALGO Traffic on X (formerly Twitter) and ALDOT on Facebook. Follow regional operation accounts on Facebook and X for more local information:

• ALDOT East Central Region Facebook, X (formerly Twitter): (Blount, Calhoun, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Jefferson, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, and Tallapoosa counties)

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