Winter weather comes early, but Georgia DOT says its ready

Georgia DOT Crews Begin Brine Operations and ask motorist to help them keep you safe on the roadways

Atlanta, GA – Winter weather is here and Georgia DOT crews are ready. As the weather system moves into the state, Georgia DOT forces will begin applying brine mixture at 9 p.m. tonight on high priority routes, bridges and overpasses from west central Georgia along the I-85 corridor to the metro Atlanta region and areas north. Georgia DOT crews will begin their 12-hour emergency operation shifts at 7 p.m. tonight and continue until further notice. Because the impact of the weather system remains to be seen, crews and equipment will be deployed where they are most needed based on roadway conditions.

“We will continue to work in partnership with the National Weather Service and our state and local partners and monitor the system as it moves into the state,” said Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell McMurry, P.E. “Weather systems can often be fluid. However, we work hard to prepare and respond to all types of weather events as quickly and effectively as possible.”

During hazardous winter weather conditions, Georgia DOT advises motorists to:

• Call 5-1-1 to report icy conditions on interstates and state routes;
• If possible, postpone travel until daylight hours when road conditions such as black ice are more visible;
• Pay attention to Georgia DOT trucks spreading materials and stay back a safe distance;
• Do not pass a Georgia DOT dump truck spreading the salt/gravel mixture, as gravel may kick up and could break car windshields — follow at least 100 feet behind Department vehicles;
• Be aware of Georgia DOT and other emergency crews working to clear snow, ice, debris and potential downed trees or power lines from interstates and state routes;
• SLOW DOWN at least half your normal speed and use a low gear as you drive;
• Treat a non-working traffic signal as a four-way stop; and 
• Beware of black ice (especially on bridges) and watch for fallen trees or power lines

Before getting on the road during winter weather Georgia DOT urges motorists to call 511 for updated information on roadway conditions. Georgia 511 is a free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information statewide, including closures and reports of icing or other hazardous conditions on interstates and state routes. Callers can transfer to operators to request complimentary vehicle assistance on interstate highways across Georgia from the Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO) and the Coordinated Highway Assistance & Maintenance (CHAMP) programs – 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 511 for vehicle assistance or to report an issue. Visit www.511ga.org.