Tow companies prepare for winter weather in central Texas
TxDOT officials have also already had crews on the streets since Sunday to ensure they are pre-treated and prepared for what is to come.
AUSTIN, Texas — As more winter weather begins to roll through Texas, road conditions continue to deteriorate.
The biggest piece of advice for drivers is to stay off the roads, but for some that’s not possible. Because of this, towing companies and TxDOT crews are preparing themselves and the streets for what is to come.
“We see cars in ditches, cars upside down off the roads,” Jimmy Matyas said Fast towing in Austin.
Towing contractor Jimmy Matyas said he was kept busy during the central Texas winter weather.
“Cars that are way off the road. I mean, you take them 30 or 40 feet off the road because they can’t, they can’t stop. There’s no traction and they just drive,” Matyas said.
TxDOT officials like Brad Wheelis say they are ready. He notes that crews have already been out on the roads since Sunday to ensure they are pre-treated and prepared for what is to come. Crews will be keeping an eye on things to make sure the roads are at least passable.
“Fair doesn’t mean perfect, and if you can stay home and avoid getting out on the streets, do so,” Wheelis said.
Wheelis said TxDOT’s work will not stop until this is done.
“We believe we will be hit by this storm. So we’ll be out there to pull back the roads as needed, and then we’ll move to a granular substance that will melt any ice that’s formed,” Wheelis said.
Maytas knows accidents still happen, but a tow truck driver’s own safety is paramount.
“Every six days, an employee is killed at the side of the highway just for careless driving if they don’t slow down or run over and drive at high speed,” Matyas said.
So if you must drive, remember a few important tips.
“Just grab the brakes, spring them, don’t step on the brakes because that’s where you’re going to slide and cause accidents,” Matyas said.
Austin’s Transportation Department says to pack a kit with items like chargers, jumper cables, and flashlights in case of an emergency.
https://www.kvue.com/article/weather/tow-operators-prepare-for-winter-weather-in-central-texas/269-d9c2687d-d452-4356-9a41-eeaa85105be9 Tow companies prepare for winter weather in central Texas
