(February 7, 2014) –With another round or two of winter weather predicted to hit Maryland this weekend, the State Highway Administration (SHA) reminds all travelers to plan ahead and prepare for potentially hazardous travel.

SHA’s Statewide Operations Center has nearly 700 camera images along state and local roads in every corner of Maryland. Additionally, SHA has 39 weather stations with pavement sensors and equipment, making it possible to monitor pavement temperatures, air temperatures, moisture and salinity on roadways across the State. Crews also have access to 14 salt brine facilities and 94 salt barns and domes throughout Maryland.  SHA will be ready to respond, and asks that drivers use caution, especially if power outages occur or they encounter fallen trees and branches.

“We ask drivers to  use caution and be alert for non-functioning traffic signals.  Do not assume other drivers will stop or yield the right of way.  Remember Maryland law requires that drivers treat a dark traffic signal without power as a four-way stop,” SHA Administator Melinda B. Peters said.  “Caution, courtesy and common sense will go a long way. Also, please remain alert for emergency and utility crews as they work to restore power in different parts of the State.”

Maryland law requires that drivers treat non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops. Drivers should come to a full stop, yield to any vehicle or pedestrian in the intersection, and remain stopped until it is safe to enter and continue through the intersection. If possible, make eye contact with other drivers at the intersection to determine their intentions and communicate yours. Even if you have the right of way, it is better to allow another driver to proceed if it appears he or she is going to do so, instead of risking a crash.

Once conditions improve, those traveling to the airports, train stations or bus terminals, can Know Before You Go! by dialing 511 for traffic, weather alerts and road conditions. Visit the MD511 or CHART site to view live traffic cameras and maps.  Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and log onto www.roads.maryland.gov to get more tips for safe winter weather driving.                                    

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