As the winter storm continues to bring challenging conditions to the Northeast PA region, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has taken proactive measures to ensure motorists' safety and the continued accessibility of the interstates.

Among the restrictions implemented are the temporary reduction of the speed limit to 45 mph and the restriction of commercial vehicles to the right lane only on Interstate 81, stretching from Dunmore to the New York state line in Lackawanna and Susquehanna counties.

PennDOT crews have been treating roadways, prioritizing keeping roads passable rather than completely free of ice and snow. The department will continue its efforts to treat roadways throughout the storm until the snow ends and roads are clear for safe travel.

The primary purpose of these travel restrictions is to ensure that the interstates remain open during the most challenging winter conditions. PennDOT reassures that the travel restrictions will be lifted once weather conditions improve.

While PennDOT advises against traveling during winter storms, they offer resources for motorists to check conditions on over 40,000 roadway miles, including color-coded winter conditions on 2,900 miles, through the 511PA platform. This service, accessible 24/7, offers traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, traffic speed information, and access to over 1,000 traffic cameras. The 511PA platform is available through smartphone applications for iPhone and Android devices, by calling 5-1-1, or by following regional X alerts.

Motorists are reminded of the legal requirement to remove accumulated ice or snow from their vehicles, including the hood, trunk, and roof, within 24 hours after the storm has concluded. This regulation applies to all vehicles, including commercial vehicles. Drivers failing to comply are subject to a fine of $50, with additional penalties of up to $1,500 if snow or ice dislodges and causes damage or injury to another vehicle or pedestrian.

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For more information and updates on travel restrictions and road conditions in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, and Wyoming counties, motorists can subscribe to PennDOT news and traffic alerts at www.penndot.pa.gov/District4.

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