Travel Advisory

PA Turnpike Widens Truck/Trailer Ban to East-West Mainline
Empty, double tractor trailers banned from Harrisburg East to N.J.

MIDDLETOWN, PA (MARCH 6, 2018) — Due to the incoming winter storm, the PA Turnpike has announced that it will widen tomorrow’s ban of certain types of trucks and trailers that was announced earlier today.

Beginning at midnight on Tuesday, the PA Turnpike will impose a ban on empty straight trucks, large combination vehicles (tandem trailers and double trailers), tractors hauling empty trailers, trailers pulled by passenger vehicles, motorcycles and recreational vehicles on the entire 111-mile Northeastern Extension (Interstate 476) from Mid-County (No. 20) to Clarks Summit (No. 131) and on a 112-mile section of the east-west mainline (Interstate 76 and 276) from Harrisburg East (No. 247) east to the Delaware River Bridge (No. 359).

If warranted, restrictions will remain in place through the storm. As conditions develop, speed restrictions and wider truck and vehicle bans will be considered.

While driving on the Turnpike in severe weather, motorists are advised to follow these protocols:

• always travel at a safe speed for conditions, no matter what the posted limit is;
• allow plenty of space when driving near plow trucks; and
• never pass a truck that is actively plowing or spreading salt.

In case of an accident, breakdown or other emergency, PA Turnpike motorists should dial *11 on a mobile phone. Be prepared to give the milepost location and direction of travel and move vehicles out of active travel lanes if possible.

While the Turnpike discourages travelling during winter storms, motorists can check PA Turnpike conditions before heading out at www.paturnpike.com; look at the “Current Alerts” ticker at the top for restrictions. Travelers can also call the toll-free TRIP line at 866-976-TRIP (8747) for the latest travel information.

The PA Turnpike reminds motorists to pack a winter emergency kit. A basic kit includes non-perishable food, water, blanket, small shovel and warm clothes. When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should consider passenger necessities like baby food, pet supplies or medications.

Follow the PA Turnpike on Twitter at: @PATurnpikeAlert.