IDAHO — To prevent accidents out on the roads and protect snowplow operators during this year's winter conditions, the Idaho Transportation Department hopes drivers are preparing to avoid those dangerous situations.
With winter weather arriving early in the Treasure Valley, it wasn't a surprise for Mick Alley at Boise's Big O Tires to see many customers come through the doors.
"Any time you get that first set of snow, everyone gets pretty motivated," Alley said.
Alley explained there are several things to keep in mind when getting your vehicle ready for those icy conditions.
"Winter traction is always the biggest things, biggest obstacle. There are certain things with the vehicle that needs to be also maintained, but traction to the road is always a big cue," he said.
To ensure drivers take safety steps, the Idaho Transportation Department launched the "Idaho Ready" campaign.
"To be Idaho ready for all sorts of winter conditions driving conditions, whether it's ice, black ice, fog, sleet, the snow, we see all of that good stuff here in Idaho," said Jillian Garrigues, ITD spokesperson.
ITD will be posting photos and videos throughout their social media sites to provide additional help. One feature they are hoping everyone will take advantage of is the Idaho 511 website and the 511 app on your phone.
"It has weather reports, road conditions, and cameras. The cameras are a great tool. If you are driving up to Idaho City and want to check the roads, we have cameras on highway 21 that you can see at that moment before you leave," says Garrigues.
Keeping snowplow operators safe out on the roads is also a big push this year.
"You really need to make sure you're giving yourself and the snowplow driver plenty of room in between. We also say the safest place to be is behind it and plenty of distance itself."
ITD said so far this season. there's only been one incident of a snowplow getting hit up in north Idaho, and fortunately, everyone involved is okay.
