Winter Weather and Heavy Traffic: Post-Holiday Travel Safety Tips

Fairfax County, VA – With continued travel across the region, Fairfax County roadways and surrounding interstates are expected to remain busy in the days ahead. Higher traffic volume, potential winter weather, and changing travel patterns may create added challenges for drivers.

The Fairfax County Police Department encourages motorists to plan ahead and follow these safety tips to help ensure safe travel.

Check Express Lanes Direction Before Traveling

Drivers using Express Lanes should confirm the direction of travel before heading out, especially during holiday travel periods when schedules may be adjusted.

Current lane direction and hours of operation can be found on the Virginia Express Lanes website. This information is updated regularly and can help drivers avoid sudden lane changes or unnecessary delays.

Prepare for Changing Winter Weather

Winter weather is expected to impact parts of Northern Virginia and the East Coast, which may lead to slick roadways, reduced visibility, and slower traffic.

Before departing:

• Check the weather forecast along your entire route.
• Allow additional travel time.
• Clear snow and ice from all vehicle surfaces, including windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, and the roof.

Keep in mind that bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways may freeze before other surfaces.

Slow Down and Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions. When roads are wet, icy, or snow-covered, drivers should reduce speed and increase following distance to allow more time to react to changing traffic conditions.

If weather or visibility worsens, consider delaying travel until conditions improve.

Move Over for Stopped Vehicles and Emergency Responders

Busy travel weekends often result in more disabled vehicles and roadside assistance calls. Virginia law requires drivers to move over for stopped vehicles displaying flashing lights or hazard lights when it is safe to do so, or to slow down if changing lanes is not possible.

Failing to move over places emergency responders, roadside workers, and fellow motorists at serious risk.

Drive Sober and Stay Focused

Post-holiday travel continues to be a time when impaired and distracted driving crashes occur. Drivers are reminded to plan for a sober ride home, avoid driving while fatigued, and remain focused on the road.

Set navigation before leaving, put phones away, and limit distractions inside the vehicle.

Plan Ahead and Travel Safely

Checking traffic conditions, weather updates, and Express Lanes direction before departing can help reduce stress and improve safety for everyone on the road.

The Fairfax County Police Department thanks the community for doing their part to keep our roadways safe. Slow down, stay alert, and help ensure everyone arrives home safely.

Interested in joining our team? Visit our website to learn more about joining FCPD.

For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.