KY Transportation Cabinet Asks Drivers to Be Ready for Winter Driving

John Bobel

December 20, 2022

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) advises motorists to prepare for winter weather. The forecast is being monitored closely by the District 7 Office. Weather information stations across Kentucky provide data to the Transportation Operations Center in Frankfort. The TOC is staffed 24 hours daily and distributes information to the twelve highway districts across the state.

Residents should avoid driving and traveling if at all possible during snow and icing events.

Tips for driving in snow & ice for winter weather if you must travel: 

• Avoid nonessential travel if conditions are dangerous.
• Check the forecast and plan ahead for your trip.
• Make sure your vehicle is sufficiently winterized – check the battery, antifreeze level, heater, defroster, wipers, and windshield washer.
• Dress warmly for the weather – in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. Anticipation of unexpected emergencies.
• Try to keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent fuel line freezing and in preparation for possible lengthy delays on the roadway.
• Make sure a friend or relative is aware of your travel route.
• Carry a cell phone and a cell phone power pack/battery charger.
• Make sure your vehicle has an emergency care kit. It should include jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, an ice scraper, blankets, nonperishable food, a first aid kit, and traction material.
• Drive carefully. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Do not use cruise control.
• Give a wide berth to snow removal equipment.
• Bridges and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other areas are not.
• Stopping in snow requires more braking distance than stopping on dry pavement – up to four times more distance. Leave plenty of distance between yourself and the vehicle ahead.
• Be visible. Dull, cloudy days reduce visibility – drive using low-beam headlights.
• Steer into the skid. Stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.

Forecast from the National Weather Service:

https://www.weather.gov/lmk/weatherstory

Information about KYTC snow & ice removal efforts:

http://snowky.ky.gov