Vehicle Restrictions Announced On PA Roads Ahead Of Storm: See List

PENNSYLVANIA — Restrictions were announced Friday for certain vehicles on all Pennsylvania interstates, the turnpike and several other major roads in advance of a potentially devastating snowstorm expected to impact the entire state this weekend.

Starting at midnight on Saturday, when the storm is expected to begin ramping up to full force, the state will implement what it calls a Tier 4 Vehicle Restriction. On roads where that restriction is in place, the following vehicles are not permitted:

• All commercial vehicles
• Motor coaches
• School buses
• Motorcycles
• Recreational vehicles and motor homes
• Passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, etc.) with towing trailers

Although restrictions will be in place just for the above vehicles, PennDOT is urging all motorists to stay off the roads if possible.

“With the accumulation we’re expecting to see across most of the state, it’s important to remember that roads will not be completely clear of snow," PennDOT secretary Mike Carroll said in a statement. "Please avoid traveling if you can. If you must venture out, please slow down and allow extra time."

According to PennDOT, restrictions will be lifted as quickly as possible when conditions permit. Restrictions can be changed based on conditions on the roadways, and reports from first responders, law enforcement and PennDOT personnel.

Preliminary data indicates that last winter in Pennsylvania, there were 8,329 crashes, 29 fatalities and 2,959 injuries on snowy, slushy or ice-covered state roads. PennDOT said that 11 of the people who died were not wearing a seat belt and 17 of the fatalities occurred in crashes where the driver was going too fast for conditions and drove out of their lane.

As is customary, Pennsylvania State Police will be actively monitoring road conditions and responding to incidents throughout the storm. Police remain motorists that it's illegal to operate a vehicle if snow or ice obstructs the driver's view through any window.