Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is implementing vehicle restrictions on the entire length of Interstates 86 and 90 in Erie County starting at 4 p.m. Friday.

Under the Tier 2 restrictions, the following vehicles are not permitted on affected roadways:

  • Tractors without trailers.
  • Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded enclosed trailers, open trailers or tank trailers.
  • Tractors towing unloaded or lightly loaded tandem trailers.
  • Tractors towing loaded tandem trailers unless there are chains or another approved Alternate Traction Devices (ADTs).
  • Enclosed unloaded or lightly loaded cargo delivery trucks/box trucks that meet the definition of a CMV.
  • Passenger vehicles (cars, SUV’s, pickup trucks, etc.) towing trailers.
  • Recreational vehicles/motorhomes.
  • School buses, commercial buses and motor coaches regardless of the availability of trains or ATDs.
  • Motorcycles.

PennDOT said the restriction will help keep the interstates open during the most challenging conditions of the winter storm.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid any unnecessary travel, but if you head out, PennDOT is offering the following advice:

  • Stay at least six car lengths back from a plow truck that is treating the roadways.
  • Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits conditions.
  • Turn on your headlights. If caught in a snow squall, turn on your hazard lights.
  • Stay in your lane and increase your following distance.
  • Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient.
  • Do not drive distracted; your full attention is required.
  • Use your defroster and wipers.
  • Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
  • During whiteouts, come to a complete stop only when you can safely pull off the roadway.
  • Do not stop in the flow of traffic since this could cause a chain-reaction collision.
  • Do not pass a vehicle moving slowly or speed up to get away from a vehicle that is following too closely.
  • Always buckle up and never drive impaired.?

You can monitor changing road conditions here.