TMA Bucks, the county's transportation agency, is offering winter driving hazards tips as snow and ice begin to hit the region.
BUCKS COUNTY, PA — As the first day of winter arrives on Dec. 21 and snow starts falling in the region, Bucks County's transportation agency is offering drivers tips on how to deal with seasonal hazards.
Bensalem-based TMA Bucks outlined some of the hazardous driving conditions residents will experience from now through spring.
From snow-covered roads to icy conditions and freezing temperatures, TMA Bucks said the safety tips are designed to help commuters travel with greater confidence, control, and peace of mind.
"Winter weather can quickly create hazardous driving conditions, making it essential to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for icy and snowy roads," TMA Bucks said. "We urge all commuters to prioritize safety by following these tips for a safe and stress-free winter travel season."
TMA Bucks Community Traffic Safety Program Manager Carly Wible emphasizes the importance of making smart decisions during bad weather.
Officials also said it's important to have a reliable mechanic check the brakes, battery, hoses, and belts on vehicles.
A winter emergency kit is also important, TMA Bucks said. That kit should include items such as a flashlight and batteries, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel, gloves, a blanket, and anything else to prepare for travel.
“If snow or ice is in the forecast and you don’t have to be on the road, stay home and plan to work remotely if possible, so PennDOT and local road crews can treat and clear roads for essential workers like emergency personnel," Wible said. "If you must drive in winter weather, make sure you’re prepared and follow important safety tips to stay safe.”
Here are the safety tips offered by TMA Bucks:
“It’s important to remember that not all highways in Bucks County are state-maintained,” Wible said. “Many are owned and serviced by local boroughs and townships rather than PennDOT. These roads may take longer to be plowed or treated, so we ask drivers to be patient. Bucks County also has many rural, two-lane roads, so please be understanding and allow PennDOT and municipal crews the time they need to safely clear these areas.”
Most municipalities enforce snow emergency policies. TMA Bucks said residents should familiarize themselves with their township or borough’s specific policy ahead of winter storms. Following these guidelines helps ensure roads remain clear and safe for everyone during and after inclement weather.
While PennDOT recommends not traveling during winter storms, drivers can check conditions on more than 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, by visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to more than 1,000 traffic cameras.
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