New winter road condition categories unveiled on 511 Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) today announced new winter road condition categories to better reflect current conditions on roads across the state. The categories are now: Normal, Partially Covered, Completely Covered, Travel Not Advised, and No Report. The information streamlines the categories and makes it easier for motorists. Drivers are encouraged to “know before you go” with 511 Wisconsin, online at 511wi.gov or via the mobile app.

[inartcielad]“We continually look for ways to enhance our 511 Wisconsin traveler information service,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “As we prepare for another winter season, we’re excited to announce these new road condition categories. We know that road conditions during Wisconsin’s winters can change in the blink of an eye and drivers must expect the unexpected. We’re confident the updated winter road condition categories will help drivers make informed travel decisions this winter and beyond.”

511 Wisconsin first launched 15 years ago in 2009, and the free travel information system has evolved over the years with its web and smartphone capabilities. Drivers have direct access to up-to-date traffic information throughout the state. On 511 Wisconsin, users can access live streaming video through hundreds of traffic cameras across the state and winter road conditions for more than 14,000 miles of roadway.

The WisDOT Traffic Management Center (TMC) oversees 511 Wisconsin to update the website and mobile app with current information based on notifications from law enforcement and other first responders.

“The Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies coordinate with TMC staff and dispatchers working around the clock to keep all travelers in the know,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Our winter weather in Wisconsin can make driving dangerous at times, so we encourage drivers to plan ahead, watch your speed during inclement weather and avoid distractions behind the wheel.”

How to use the winter road conditions:

• Visit 511wi.gov online, or download the 511 Wisconsin app.
• In the map legend, make sure “winter road conditions” is checked.
• Look for the colors outlining the roads near you.
• The colors are listed from best to worst: normal (green), partially covered (blue), completely covered (pink), travel not advised (black), and no report (gray).

How to view live traffic cameras:

• Visit 511wi.gov online or download the 511 Wisconsin app.
• In the top right corner under the Map Legend and 511 layers box, click the “cameras” checkbox.
• Look for the camera icons along your route.
• On 511wi.gov, click the camera icon and look for “show video” button to view the live camera feed.
• On the 511 Wisconsin app, press the “play” button in the bottom right corner.

Users can still dial 511 to access travel information; however, for the most up-to-date technology, the traveling public is encouraged to use the 511 Wisconsin app or online at 511wi.gov.

Motorists should always expect the unexpected when driving in the winter in Wisconsin. When possible, avoid traveling during storms to give winter maintenance crews room to work.

Preparation before winter travel

• If you must travel, check 511wi.gov for road conditions or incidents along your route. Download the 511 Wisconsin app to monitor conditions on the go, but not while driving. Monitor 511 Wisconsin on X/Twitter for the latest incidents and information.
• Clear snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows, front and rear lights, roof and hood.
• Fill the gas tank and windshield washer fluid.
• Have a fully charged phone and an emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Alert others about your route and expected travel time.

Precautions while driving

• Buckle up and put your phone down while driving. Every trip, every time.
• Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time, following distance, and reduce your speed during winter conditions.
• Be cautious on bridges, overpasses, and entrance and exit ramps.
• Don’t be overconfident in four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicles. All vehicles require additional time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
• Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and snowplows. Move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles.
• Stay at least 200 feet behind a working snowplow. Make sure that you can see the plow’s mirrors to ensure the driver can see you.
• In case of a crash or slide off, stay in the vehicle, turn on the hazards, call 911 and move vehicle(s) out of traffic if possible.

Visit wisconsindot.gov/staysafe​ to learn about safe driving tips and best practices for winter road safety.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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