BATON ROUGE, La. (Jan. 16, 2024 6:19 PM) – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development warns motorists to restrict their travel to only essential movement, as the impacts of the recent winter storm continue overnight Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Any melting that occurred during the day today will re-freeze as we move into the evening and nighttime hours, creating extremely slick conditions. People who are unnecessarily on the road pose a risk to workers, emergency personnel, themselves, and fellow motorists.
DOTD crews in the northern regions continue their round-the-clock operations, working twelve-hour shifts in the brutal temperatures. It’s important to understand that as a general rule, DOTD treats only the bridges & overpasses with de-icing material such as salt or brine, not the roadways themselves.
As always, DOTD will work to keep priority routes open, such as interstates and major U.S. highways. However, drivers should not be on the roadway during hazardous driving conditions.
If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists should adhere to the following driving tips:
- Drive slowly and carefully.
- Avoid driving while distracted.
- Always allow for extra time.
- Avoid using cruise control.
- Reduce speeds when visibility is low.
- Leave plenty of room between vehicles.
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Be on the lookout for DOTD crews and other emergency responders and equipment.
- Remember that it’s unlawful and unsafe to drive around a ‘road closed’ barricade for any reason.
- Put blankets or warm clothing in your vehicle, along with water and snacks in the event you get stranded.
