Highway Patrol warns of adverse driving conditions

With a winter storm warning posted for portions of North Florida, the Florida Highway Patrol spokesman, Sergeant Dylan Bryan, urges Historic City News readers to prepare for the possibility of adverse driving conditions.

National Weather Service forecasts show a severe cold front moving into Florida, bringing with it the possibility of freezing rain and light snow in some areas; resulting in hazardous driving conditions for motorists.

The Patrol offers the following tips for driving in this type of weather conditions:

• Stay put. Avoid driving, if at all possible. The safest place to be is off the roads.
• Slow down. When roads are icy, vehicles don’t have the traction required to stop quickly.
• Don’t attempt to pass slower vehicles.
• Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Gently apply your brakes and accelerate at a slow speed.
• Be patient and courteous. Driving in adverse weather conditions can be stressful.
• Stay alert. When the temperature is near freezing, the roadway may look wet when in fact ice is forming.
• Remember that bridges and overpasses are more prone to freezing in these types of conditions.
• Remember to dial *FHP (347) from your cell phone if you are on the road and need assistance.

Motorists are encouraged to monitor the changing weather conditions and adjust their driving as necessary.