Florida Highway Patrol cautions motorists of reduced visibility on Alligator Alley in Collier County
Florida Highway Patrol State Troopers continue to monitor ongoing wildfire conditions along Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley between mile markers 65-85) in Collier County, the department announced.
All lanes remain open at this time; however, wildfire activity and smoke may significantly reduce visibility on the roadway. Motorists traveling through the area are urged to use caution, reduce speed, and remain alert for changing conditions.
The Florida Highway Patrol urges motorists to drive on low beam. High beams will only be reflected off the fog and impair visibility even more, the department stated in a press release.
Other advisories from the Florida Highway Patrol regarding the wildfires and reduced visibility on I-75 include the following:
Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.
Slow down and watch your speedometer before you enter a patch of fog.
Watch out for slow-moving or stopped vehicles. Open you window a little and listen for traffic you cannot see.
Reduce the distractions in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and keep your cell phone down. Your full attention is required.
Use wipers and defrosters for maximum visibility. Sometimes it is difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield.
Use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as a guide.
Be patient and avoid passing and/or changing lanes.
Signal turns well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop.
Do not stop on an Interstate or heavily traveled road. You could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision. If you must pull off the road, signal, then carefully pull off as far as possible and turn your hazard lights on.