State transportation department urges drivers to slow down as Alaska roads turn wintry

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities urged drivers statewide Tuesday to slow down, noting that speed limits are set assuming optimal road conditions.

"Alaska's roads are starting to get wintry, so you'll need to adjust and drive for conditions," the department said on Facebook.

It asked drivers to leave more room between cars, brake and accelerate gently, take turns slowly, avoid sudden lane changes, turn on their headlights and give themselves extra time.

It also asked drivers not to crowd snowplows. The department's winter driving tips say to stay at least 200 feet behind snow-removal equipment and not to pass on the right. Its snowplow safety page says the operator will eventually pull over when it's safe to let drivers by.

Before heading out, drivers can check 511.alaska.gov for road conditions, crashes, road cameras and where the plows are. The department's winter resources page lists snowplowing hotlines by area.

Fairbanks-area drivers have already seen icy stretches this fall. The National Weather Service warned of icy spots on roads Oct. 13, and freezing rain left slick spots Oct. 29, when police urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, Alaska News reported.