NEWS RELEASE NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Andrea Summers

September 1, 2006 Community Relations Officer

302-744-2743

Motorists Urged to Drive Cautiously as Ernesto Approaches

Heavy rains may make driving hazardous, so slow down, turn your lights on and avoid flooded roadways

Dover- The heavy rains predicted to fall on Delaware Friday evening into Saturday morning as Tropical Storm Ernesto approaches can make for hazardous driving conditions. That’s why the Delaware Office of Highway Safety is urging motorists to use caution while driving on First State roadways during this time.

OHS officials believe that a combination of factors may make driving more dangerous than usual this evening. First of all, the heaviest rains are expected to occur at night when lighting and therefore visibility will be reduced. Please remember, day or night, Delaware law requires vehicle headlights to be on when windshield wipers are in use or visibility is reduced.

Reduced visibility could also make it more difficult for drivers to see when a roadway is flooded or washed out. Drivers should not attempt to travel down or cross roads that are underwater. According to DEMA officials, even familiar roads can suffer surface damage with deep pot holes or collapse because of underlying layers being washed away.

In addition, rain slicked roadways make stopping more difficult. Avoid slamming on the breaks, as it could easily cause you to skid out of control. You should drive at or below posted speed limits so that you have enough time to react safely to situations that unfold up ahead. You should also keep more than the normally recommended two car lengths between your vehicle and those in front of you so you can brake in a slower, more controlled manner and avoid rear-ending the car in front of you.

Finally, because it’s a holiday weekend, there will be more cars on roads throughout the state than there would be on a typical weekend. If at all possible, consider staying home tonight and delaying your travel plans until the rain lets up and visibility increases with daylight.

For updates on Tropical Storm Ernesto, visit the DEMA website at dema.delaware.gov.

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