For Immediate Release: December 19, 2008

Traffic Advisory: Thruway Authority Announces Inclement Weather Systemwide Motorists Advised to Drive With Caution

The New York State Thruway Authority announces that there is currently low visibility and slow moving traffic Systemwide due to the inclement winter weather.

Thruway Authority maintenance crews are out in full force working to clear the snow and ice from the System.

As always, motorists are encouraged to drive safely, be alert and allow more distance between their vehicle and others as stopping distances become longer during inclement weather. As a reminder, posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions and during inclement weather, it is necessary to slow down.

Motorists are also reminded to always maintain a safe following distance behind snowplows; do not tailgate. Motorists should always be able to see the plow’s mirrors; if motorists cannot see the plow's mirrors, the snowplow operator cannot see them.

During the winter months, the Thruway Authority provides motorists with road condition and weather-related information 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-THRUWAY (1-800-847-8929). The Thruway’s TDD/TTY number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-253-6244. Motorists may also obtain weather information by logging onto www.nysthruway.gov. From the homepage, click on “Traveler Information,” then click on “Weather Travel Advisory,” under Travel Conditions/Maps.

Additionally, the Authority offers a free email service called TRANSalert to its customers via email or text messaging to inform them of major unscheduled incidents that may affect their travel on the Thruway.  To sign up for the TRANSalert service, motorists can visit the Authority’s website at www.nysthruway.gov/tas/.

The Authority remains committed to providing high levels of safety and service throughout the winter season and year round.

The Authority appreciates motorists understanding during this time.

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