New Mexico Department of Transportation snow plows on the job in 2013. Photo by Jake Schoellkopf/NMDOT

NMDOT News:

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Transportation’s (NMDOT) goal is safety and keeping the state’s roads clear. 

With the potential for snow accumulations this holiday week, NMDOT wants to assure drivers that the department is ready to respond to adverse weather conditions that may impact roads. NMDOT crews have been readying their salt and sand spreaders, graders and snow plows. They also are monitoring weather reports and are ready to respond as soon as dispatched.

NMDOT’s road condition website www.nmroads.com is updated around the clock and linked to the department’s 511 road condition hotline. The NMRoads mobile app can be downloaded to keep travelers updated on the go.

Safe winter driving tips:

• Wear a seatbelt;
• Slow down and leave extra space between the vehicle in front;
• Use brakes carefully. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions;
• Don’t crowd the plow. When driving behind a snowplow, be patient and give the driver plenty of room to do his job; and
• Use extra caution on bridges, ramps, overpasses and shaded areas since they are likely to freeze first and stay frozen the longest.

High wind advisories also are in place for parts of New Mexico. Drivers of high profile vehicles should take extra precaution since these vehicles are more prone to being pushed or flipped by high winds.