TRAVEL ADVISORY
CONTACT: Renee Vid Colborn
Phone: 717-831-7507
E-mail: rcolborn@paturnpike.com
December 11, 2013
Pa. Turnpike Reminds Motorists of Winter Driving Safety

Remove all snow and ice from vehicles before travel.
While traveling Pennsylvania roadways this winter, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) would like to remind motorists of current laws in effect that promote safe winter driving. One is to remove all snow and ice from vehicles before hitting the highway, and the other is to turn on the headlights anytime the windshield wipers are in use.
 
In 2006, the Pennsylvania Snow/Ice Removal Law went into effect. If snow or ice falls from a vehicle and causes injury or death to other motorists or pedestrians, a driver could face severe fines. The fines range from $200 to $1,000 for each offense. This law does not include snow that has accumulated while driving. “We urge all motorists to clear the snow and ice from their vehicles, not only for their safety, but for the safety of everyone traveling Pennsylvania roadways,” says Craig Shuey, Chief Operating Officer of the PTC.
 
A law that also has been in effect is turning on the headlights anytime the windshield wipers are in use because of inclement weather. A violation of this law is a $25 fine. The goal is to not only improve the driver’s visibility, but to make the driver’s vehicle more visible to those around them.
 
Turnpike travelers can always get up-to-the-minute weather conditions and traffic advisories by calling 866-976-TRIP (8747) or visiting the live Travel Conditions Map online at www.paturnpike.com/webmap. The Turnpike’s smartphone app, TRIP Talk, streams audio advisories to iPhone and Droid users so they can keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. To download the free app, visit www.paturnpike.com/triptalk.
 

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