State Police Ask Travelers to Delay Plans

State police issued an advisory Friday urging residents to delay travels if possible until later Saturday, after the storm has moved through the state. Staying off the states roads will give the Virginia Department of Transportation the chance to treat and clear roadways, and will greatly reduce drivers’ chances of being stuck in backed up traffic and/or being involved in an accident, according to the advisory.

VSP also offered the following safe travel tips for motorists to keep in mind before heading out:

• Leave early … so you have extra time to safely reach your travel destination
• Slow your speed for road conditions
• Buckle up and don’t drive distracted
• Use your headlights … to increase your visibility and to help other motorists see you
• Completely clear all windows and head/taillights of snow/ice before traveling
• Increase driving distances between vehicles for increased stopping distance
• Call 511 for road conditions or click on http://www.511virginia.org – not 911 or #77, as these are for emergency calls only

The VSP also has directed travelers to stay with their vehicles if they become stuck or disabled until assistance arrives. Abandoned vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

For additional tips on making storm preparations, please go to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s site: http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/stayinformed/winter.