Winter Maintenance Snow Removal and Ice Control
Ice and Snow, Take it Slow!
Winter weather in New Hampshire can be challenging and drivers often face variable and changing road conditions. The NHDOT utilizes experienced and dedicated personnel, specialized equipment, and the latest technologies to provide the safest roads possible before, during, and after winter weather events and snowstorms. This web page offers drivers links to real-time weather and road conditions, the NHDOT's "Winter Snow and Ice Removal Policy", answers to commonly asked questions, and some suggestions for driving during winter conditions.
Real-Time Road Information
Statewide Driving and Weather Information Transportation Managment Center
Winter Maintenance Snow Removal and Ice Control Policy
This document details a level of service for each type of road when and where the DOT starts plowing, sanding, salting, what types of chemicals are used, and other rules and guidelines that are followed during and after a winter event.
Operational Guidelines for Snow Removal and Ice Control
This document details materials, application rates, spreading practices, plowing
operations, performance measurement and general guidelines.
Safe Driving in Winter Conditions
Slow down for wet, snowy, or icy conditions, when visibility is poor, or when conditions are changing or unpredictable.
Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady spots, which are candidates for developing ice.
Allow additional space between vehicles.
Winter conditions often result in longer stopping distances.
Before pulling out into traffic, remember that they may not be able to slow down.
You may not be able to accelerate as quickly as on dry pavement either.
Avoid using cruise control in winter driving condition.
Stopping on snow and ice requires extra time and distance. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don't have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal.
Brake early, brake slowly, brake correctly, and never slam on the brakes.
On snow and ice, go slow, no matter what type of vehicle you drive.
Even if you have four-wheel drive, you may not be able to stop any faster, or maintain control any better, once you lose traction. Four-wheel drive may get you going faster, but it won't help you stop sooner.
Accelerate gradually and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers.
Merge slowly, since sudden movements can cause your vehicle to slide.
Look farther ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by other vehicles will alert you to problems more quickly, and give you that split-second of extra time to react safely.
Avoid distracted driving. This includes texting, eating, handheld devices, etc.
Don't crowd the plow. The front plow extends several feet in front of the truck and may cross the centerline and shoulders during plowing operations.
Don't tailgate or stop too close behind snowplows. Snowplows are usually spreading deicing materials from the back of the truck and may need to stop or take evasive action to avoid stranded vehicles. If you find yourself behind a snowplow, stay behind it, leaving a safe distance. The road behind a snowplow will be safer to drive on.
On multi-lane roads, watch for several snowplows plowing in tandem. This type of plowing clears all the lanes of a multi-lane highway quickly and effectively with one pass.
Snowplows throw up a cloud of snow that can reduce your visibility to zero in less time than you can react. Never drive into a snow cloud, as it could conceal another snowplow.
Snowplows travel much slower than posted speeds while removing snow and ice from the roads. When you spot a plow, allow plenty of time to slow down.
A snowplow operator's field of vision is restricted, so they may not see you.
Give them plenty of room, as plows turn and exit the road frequently.
Before leaving home, find out about the driving conditions.
Safe drivers know the weather, and they know their limits. If the weather is bad, remember, ice and snow, take it slow, or just don't go.
Clear all the snow off all of your vehicle including roof, windows, head lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
Make sure you can see and be seen.
Always buckle up, and remember, when driving in winter, ice and snow, take it slow.
Give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely.
Check your vehicle's tires, brakes, fluids, wiper blades, lights, belts, and hoses to make sure they're in good condition before the start of the winter season.
