PHOENIX – With winter and the promise of snow in the high country rapidly approaching, preparation throughout the year means the Arizona Department of Transportation is ready to keep highways open and travelers safe.

Through its certification and training programs, ADOT has 400 certified snowplow operators ready for winter storms.

Regular maintenance by ADOT Equipment Services has the agency’s 200 snowplows ready to go. Last winter, ADOT spent $2.2 million, an average of $11,000 per vehicle, to keep its snowplows in top condition.

“It’s always difficult to predict not only how severe winter weather will be but where problems will occur,” said Dallas Hammit, ADOT’s state engineer and deputy director for transportation. “With our operators trained and our snowplow fleet up and running, however, ADOT has the resources necessary to respond to snow and ice around the state.”

ADOT’s snowplows working on Interstate 40 between Williams and Flagstaff will include a second TowPlow, a steerable trailer that allows one driver in a snowplow to clear two lanes. Attached to the back of a snowplow and steered by the snowplow driver, the TowPlow allows ADOT remove snow and ice more efficiently while using less fuel, and it frees another snowplow and driver to work elsewhere.

As with any snowplow, drivers approaching a TowPlow should slow down and pass only when the operator pulls over to allow traffic to get around. Remember: The road behind a plow is the safest place to be when snow and ice are on the highway.

While ADOT is ready to keep the roads open and as safe as possible in challenging conditions, motorists can do their part by preparing for travel in winter weather.

ADOT’s “Know Snow” website at azdot.gov/KnowSnow has tips that include adjusting your speed to conditions, leaving extra room between your vehicle and the one ahead, carrying plenty of food and water, and packing an emergency preparedness kit. Tips include carrying a small bag of cat litter or sand to provide traction if your vehicle becomes stuck along the roadway.

Before heading out in any conditions, drivers can call 511 or visit ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The website features real-time images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions.

PHOENIX – Three routes to lakes in the White Mountains have reopened after winter closures, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

They are: State Route 261 between Eagar and Big Lake; State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake; and State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake.

Before heading off to enjoy the mountains, motorists should do the following:

• Make sure all occupants in a vehicle are buckled in.
• Check tire pressure, fluids and more to make sure a vehicle is in proper running condition.
• Be patient, including not following other vehicles too closely and building in extra travel time.
• Get enough sleep before the trip.
• Bring extra water and food.
• Never drink and drive.
• Check for information about highway restrictions and more by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or following ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

PHOENIX – An innovative new snowplow is allowing the Arizona Department of Transportation to remove snow and ice more efficiently by having one driver clear the width of two lanes.

The first TowPlow to join ADOT’s fleet of 200 traditional snowplows is assigned to 20 miles of Interstate 40 between Williams and Bellemont west of Flagstaff. The device saw its first use during this week’s snowstorm.

The TowPlow is a steerable trailer with a 26-foot blade that’s attached to the back of a regular snowplow truck. The combination, able to plow a 24-foot-wide path, lets ADOT clear more lanes in less time using less fuel.

“It’s been a very busy year for ADOT’s winter operations, and as we work through this latest storm the TowPlow has already been out on the highway plowing snow and ice,” said Dallas Hammit, ADOT’s state engineer and deputy director for transportation. “This new plow is a time-saving and safe addition to the department’s fleet of snowplow trucks and provides a higher level of service to all drivers and travelers.”

When possible, ADOT will run another snowplow truck alongside the TowPlow setup, clearing both lanes and the shoulder at once. To keep vehicles at a safe distance, a flag car will be positioned behind the snowplows traveling side by side.

ADOT will evaluate the TowPlow’s performance this winter before deciding whether to purchase more.

• Slow down: Stay well behind the safety vehicle that follows the TowPlow.
• Don’t try to pass: The flag car and the plows will move over periodically and allow traffic to pass when it is safe to do so.
• Remember: The road behind the TowPlow and other snowplows is the safest place to drive.

For more tips on preparing for travel in snow country, please visit azdot.gov/knowsnow.

Drivers should always check highway conditions before heading out, especially during a winter storm. The ADOT Traveler Information Center, available at az511.gov or by calling 511, is an excellent source of information, as is ADOT’s Twitter account: @ArizonaDOT.

PHOENIX – Warm clothing and blankets? Check.

Plenty of gas in the tank, fully charged cellphone, drinking water? Check, check, check.

Please add this to your safety checklist when heading to play in the snow: Don’t park along highways. Use only designated parking areas.

Highway shoulders are for emergencies, and parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in several ways:

• Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
• Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
• Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
• Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
• It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances.

Expect heavy snow-play traffic again this weekend along US 180, which can lead to long backups heading toward Flagstaff at day’s end.

Those making the trip should allow for extra travel time and prepare as they would for any extended period in snowy, icy or cold areas. For more tips on preparing for travel in snow country, please visit azdot.gov/knowsnow.

To avoid congestion heading home through Flagstaff, consider taking a marked alternate route offering a more direct path to Interstate 17, via the Interstate 40 Butler Avenue interchange.

Check highway conditions before you leave. The ADOT Traveler Information Center, available at az511.gov or by calling 511, is an excellent source of information, as is ADOT’s Twitter account: @ArizonaDOT.

PHOENIX – Recent snowstorms combined with the long holiday weekend means winter recreation areas along US 180 near Flagstaff are expected to see heavy traffic, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Motorists using US 180 during Martin Luther King Jr./Civil Rights Day weekend should expect a long queue into Flagstaff after popular snow-play areas close between 4 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Making an earlier start back may help motorists avoid the heaviest traffic.

To avoid congestion through Flagstaff, consider taking an alternate snow-play route through the city via the Butler Avenue I-40 exit. Signs direct travelers to and from US 180.

In addition to allowing for extra travel time, visitors should prepare as they would for any extended period in a snowy, icy or cold area, starting with a fully charged cellphone, plenty of fuel, drinking water and winter coats, warm blankets or both.

Don’t pull over on highways or interstates to play in the snow. It’s dangerous for you, other drivers and first responders.

Give snowplows plenty of room, starting with maintaining four car lengths behind a plow. Never pass a snowplow that’s clearing a road.

For more information on preparing for travel in snow country, please visit azdot.gov/knowsnow.

ADOT’s Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook (/AZDOT) accounts are excellent sources of information on traffic conditions, as is the ADOT Traveler Information Center available at az511.gov or by calling 511. 

PHOENIX – With back-to-back winter storms packing rain and snow, the Arizona Department of Transportation offers drivers real-time information on highways.

AZ511.gov has the latest on conditions, restrictions and closures, as well as roadside camera images from around the state. ADOT’s Twitter feed (@ArizonaDOT) helps drivers choose routes and decide if they should delay trips due to weather.

Another option: Call 511 before heading out the door.

It’s been a busy week for ADOT, with crews clearing snow and ice around the clock to keep motorists safe and traffic moving. The department has 200 snowplow trucks, along with 450 employees who have the extensive training and commercial driver licenses required to operate snowplows. During winter storms, operators typically work 12-hour shifts.

As ADOT’s snowplows clear the highways, you can help out. Give plows plenty of room and stay back at least four car lengths. Plowed snow can create a cloud that reduces visibility, and spreaders on trucks throw de-icing agents or sand that can damage vehicles. Never pass a plow truck, especially if it is pushing snow or clearing ice. Some trucks are equipped with a second side plow blade that can be hit by a passing vehicle.

During rain and snow, slow down and drive for conditions. And make sure you pack supplies you’d need if delayed. This includes warm clothing and blankets, a fully charged mobile phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, drinking water, healthy snacks, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Get plenty of rest and take frequent breaks from driving. Plan your route and be ready for delays.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work. Snow tires, chains or studded tires may be required depending on the conditions.

You can check out many other tips for winter driving at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

PHOENIX ‒ Every winter, snowplows play an essential public safety role by clearing snow and ice on Arizona roadways. But when motorists fail to give plows enough room and aren’t careful when traveling near these oversized vehicles, it creates a hazard and makes it more difficult for operators to perform what’s already a challenging job.

“Drivers should stay back at least 100 feet or more when following a snowplow and be aware the plow may need to come to a sudden stop,” ADOT Occupational Safety Manager Bob Stulz said. “The safest place is always well behind a snowplow, but if you must pass, do so cautiously when weather conditions warrant and avoid staying in the snowplow operator’s blind spot for too long.”

ADOT has 450 employees with the extensive training and commercial driver licenses required to operate snowplows. During winter storms, operators typically work 12-hour shifts.

The department has 200 snowplow trucks in its fleet. While most are in places that see the most snow, snowplows are stationed in all of ADOT’s seven regions, including three operating out of the East Valley.

Highways that are typically easy to travel during the summer months can become icy or snow-covered during the winter, especially during major storms. In addition to being extra cautious on snowy and slippery roads, travelers should expect delays in wintry conditions and budget extra time. Motorists need to be aware that posted speed limits are for normal driving conditions. When roads become wet and slippery, slow down.

“With most slide-offs occurring due to drivers traveling too fast for the conditions, it’s essential that all motorists be prepared to slow down and maintain good visibility during heavy snowfall,” Stulz added.

Snowplow operators urge drivers to follow these precautions so everyone stays safe on the road:

• First and foremost, never assume that a plow driver knows you are nearby. If you can’t see the plow driver, there is a good chance the driver can’t see you.
• Always keep a safe distance behind a snowplow ‒ the rule of thumb is four car lengths. Plowed snow can create a cloud that reduces visibility, and spreaders on trucks throw de-icing agents or sand that can damage vehicles.
• Never stop too close behind a plow truck. You never know if the driver might need to back up.
• Never pass a plow truck, especially if it is pushing snow or clearing ice. Some trucks are equipped with a second side plow blade that can be hit by a passing vehicle.
• Watch for snowplows operating in multiple travel lanes or in tandem.
• If approaching an oncoming snowplow, slow down and give the plow extra room.
• It’s important for both large and small vehicles to share the road with snowplows. In addition to driving, plow operators are also focused on what’s going on inside the cab and with situations on the roadway. Snowplows need extra room to turn, so avoid getting into their blind spots.
• Just because a plow truck has been through the area, drivers shouldn’t assume the roadway is completely clear of snow and ice. Don’t speed, and always use caution in winter driving conditions.
• Nighttime plowing is far more difficult than daytime plowing, so use extra caution around snowplows after dark.

For information, visit ADOT’s “Know Snow” website at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Before heading out on the roads, drivers are encouraged to call 5-1-1 or log on to ADOT’s Traveler Information Center at az511.gov for the latest highway conditions around the state. The website features real-time images along state highways that give drivers a glimpse of weather conditions in various regions. ADOT’s Twitter feed (@ArizonaDOT) is a great resource for travelers, too.