Caltrans is reminding motorists not to rely on their GPS devices during winter storms and to stay on the highway. Local roads are often plowed less frequently and can be in worse shape, leading motorists to become stranded and stretch emergency services thin.
Changeable Message Signs along Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 50 will be used to remind motorists of these conditions, displaying safety messages such as “Stay on Route 50, Off Hwy Routes Not Plowed.”
During the winter storm over the busy holiday weekend, area search and rescue crews were inundated with numerous calls for service, including a semi-truck stuck in a very rural area of Sierra County.
Motorists are encouraged to avoid driving during a winter storm if possible. If motorists must travel through the Sierra Nevada, it’s important to be prepared for chain controls, additional travel times and delays. Do not use a GPS device to bypass chain control or look for an alternate route. If the GPS appears to be rerouting, motorists should trust their instincts and stay on the highway.
Caltrans strives to reduce the frequency and the length of delays on state highways due to spinouts and collisions. During major storms when traffic flow is heavy, crews may meter traffic. By letting fewer vehicles feed onto the highway, crashes and congestion are reduced.
In the event of an extended delay, Caltrans advises a full tank of gas or a full charge and extra supplies. Those supplies include, but are not limited to, extra snacks, water, a blanket and a flashlight.
In Meyers, long lines of cars were on neighborhood roads and not on US50 during the Christmas storm. Drivers spent hours stopped in front of homes and driveways, thus also stranding homeowners and delaying their own drive home.