Officials continue to urge caution on the road

EAST TEXAS — With winter weather now expected to persist into Thursday morning, authorities continue to urge caution while driving. TxDOT has issued a set of safe driving tips, including these: avoid unnecessary travel if conditions warrant; be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, ramps, turns and shaded areas that usually freeze first; reduce speed and allow extra time to reach destinations; and increase the following distance between you and other vehicles. Also, if you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer into the direction of skid; and stay back at least 200 feet from vehicles treating roadways and move over for emergency vehicles.

Some additional tips: be patient. Your trip time could increase when adverse weather conditions exist. Finally, remain in your vehicle. If stranded, please call 911 to alert emergency services.