Highway snow play creating unsafe conditions on I80 as well as US50

On December 27 South Tahoe Now published an article about the unsafe practices of motorists seeking snow play along Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe and on Echo Summit, and now Caltrans is echoing that warning for other highways in the Sierra, especially Interstate 80.

Caltrans is reminding motorists that snow play is not permitted in State Roadside Rest Areas (SRRAs) or alongside highways, onramps or offramps for the safety of the public and other drivers.

With the recent storm systems in the Sierra Nevada region and accompanying clear weather conditions, many people have driven to the mountains for some family fun in the snow. However, drivers are parking alongside highways and in non-designated areas for snow play, creating hazardous driving conditions for other motorists and preventing big rigs from using rest areas for federally-mandated stops.

Caltrans SRRA’s along I80 have been overcrowded with motorists stopping to play in the snow, despite clearly displayed message boards and signs stating that snow play is not permitted. This has created traffic congestion along highway exits, which is unsafe for motorists. Vehicles are also parking in designated big rig areas, preventing truckers from stopping to rest.

In addition, motorists have been using highway onramps and offramps for snow play, increasing chances for traffic collisions and preventing snow plows from clearing lanes and shoulders. Caltrans has been working closely with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to monitor and prevent snow play in non-designated areas. Vehicles found parked illegally may be cited or towed for public safety.

On US50, people are parking in the roadway and playing in the snow on private property which is trespassing, and they are also parking in the Caltrans driveway and parking lot at the top of Echo Summit. Even though those parking along the highway at Sierra at Tahoe are parking legally, to play in the snow on the big piece of property adjacent to the highway is illegal as it is posted “No Trespassing”, which is a misdemeanor.

While Caltrans say they recognize the beauty of the snow in the Sierras and welcomes visitors to the area, the agency’s priority is keeping California state highways clear and safe for all motorists.

Besides what was listed in our December 27 article, here is a list of other legal snow play areas found on the California State Parks website at http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1233.

Motorists should also check out Caltrans’ “QuickMap” for current road conditions and chain requirements at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov. For real-time traffic, download the QuickMap app on iTunes or Google Play. Motorists also can use the California Highway Information Network automated phone service by calling 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).