INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is preparing for the winter season with a districtwide training exercise on Monday, Dec. 2. Starting Monday morning, motorists will see INDOT Southeast’s fleet of more than 170 yellow trucks on state-maintained highways and interstates to test equipment and become more familiar with assigned routes.
“This is an opportunity for our new drivers to get on-the-road training and for more experienced drivers to share their knowledge,” said INDOT Winter Operations Manager Nick Evans. “We will treat this exercise as an actual winter weather event from start to finish. Our goal is to make sure crews and their trucks are ready to go when snow and ice arrives.”
Winter operations crews will be active between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. No materials such as salt or brine will be applied during the exercise.
For safe winter travel, INDOT offers the following tips:
- Slow down and adjust travel to conditions, especially on snow-covered roads
- Don’t crowd the plow and never tailgate or drive beside a snowplow – if you must pass, do so carefully
- Always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle with items like food, water, a phone charger, sand or cat litter, flares or bright LED alternatives, a flashlight, and blankets
- Keep your vehicle full of gas, and check your battery, fluids, and spare tire
- Stay weather-aware by connecting with your local National Weather Service office
Motorists can stay up to date on road conditions during a winter storm by checking INDOT’s TrafficWise map at 511in.org or downloading the mobile app on Apple or Android devices.
Learn more about INDOT Winter Operations at indotwinterops.com.
