With a winter storm warning posted for portions of North Florida, the Florida Highway Patrol
urges motorists in affected areas 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 snow 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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. .
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through
excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through
the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and
titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit
www.flhsmv.gov or follow us on Twitter @FDHSMV. You can find us on Facebook, too.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Florida Highway Patrol says avoid driving during winter storm event