State officials in Maryland preparing roads and rest stops to ensure winter trucking safety

Snow is beginning to fall in many parts of the U.S., which can raise concerns for additional trucking safety precautions. Recently, officials from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) have announced the efforts it will be making to ensure the protection of all motorists using the state's roadways.

In preparation for the winter season, the MDOT will be opening and expanding truck stop parking lots when there is more than six inches of snowfall to truckers who need it. This should prevent drivers from having to dangerously park on the sides of highways, especially during hazardous blizzard conditions.

The Maryland Motor Truck Association (MMTA) is also in support of this initiative, which will include publicized lists to the designated areas and smartphone apps with all the necessary information.

"MMTA applauds the Department of Transportation for undertaking this pilot to maximize available parking around the state for those professional drivers who find themselves on the road during major winter events," Louis Campion, chief executive officer and president of the organization, said in a statement.

State officials in Maryland preparing roads and rest stops to ensure winter trucking safety

Tuesday, December 27th, 2011