Officials urge drivers use caution

EAST TEXAS — Tyler Police are asking residents to avoid all non-essential driving. They’re also advising drivers to avoid several areas, including the Gentry Parkway overpass at the intersection of Gentry Parkway and North Beckham Avenue and the Beckham Avenue overpass leading to UT Health East Texas and Christus Trinity Mother Frances Hospitals. According to our news partner KETK, the City Streets Team is also adding aggregate and de-icer material on the roadway, according to the city of Tyler. Drivers should maintain three times the normal following distance, while driving on snow or ice. Extra caution should be used while traveling on overpasses, ramps and bridges and shaded areas, they usually freeze first. Drivers should also keep their distance from sanding trucks and emergency responding vehicles. “If your vehicle starts to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you have regained traction. Then straighten your vehicle,” wrote the city.

The Department of Public safety urges motorist to use caution on elevated roadways (bridges, overpasses) as icy road conditions will continue. Reduce speed as you approach these areas. Officials are asking drivers to use caution on  Toll 49.  To visit the drive safe Texas map, click here.