As the storm moves through the area and damage assessments begin, drivers in Hillsborough County are asked to be cautious and patient while on the roadways and around utility and emergency response workers.
Here are a few tips to make sure everyone stays safe on the roadways:
Watch out for workers and equipment in roadways and right of ways
- Follow Florida’s Move Over law for stopped law enforcement, emergency, sanitation, and utility service vehicles, tow trucks or wreckers, and maintenance or construction vehicles with displayed warning lights without advanced signs or temporary traffic control devices
- If you can’t move over – or when on a two-lane road – slow to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit
- Slow down to 5 mph when the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less
- Recognize that traffic-control information may not be posted because of damage to traffic signs
Be aware and alert for non-working traffic lights and road hazards
- Stop lights and street signs may be missing or not working – treat intersections where lights are out as a four-way stop
- Be alert for trash in the road and for road damage
- Be alert for trash falling from haul trucks and other vehicles
- Keep space between you and other vehicles
- Make sure to secure cargo or trash carried by your vehicle – shifting loads may fall or make the vehicle unstable
Avoid water in the roadways
- Avoid driving through water, especially when it is fast moving
- As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your car or truck
- 2 feet of water will carry most cars away
- Do not drive through standing water if fallen electrical wires are in the water
Pay extra attention and practice safe driving habits
- Avoid driving when tired, fatigued, or upset
- Do not use a cellphone while operating a vehicle
- Avoid other distractions, such as eating, drinking, or adjusting vehicle controls, while driving
Original source can be found here.
