NJ Issues Commercial Vehicle Restrictions On Various State Highways

NEW JERSEY — The New Jersey Department of Transportation has issued a commercial vehicle travel restriction on multiple interstate highways beginning at 3 a.m. on Friday.

These restrictions do not apply to the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, or Atlantic City Expressway (Trenton), public safety vehicles, sworn and civilian public safety personnel; as well as other personnel directly supporting healthcare facilities or critical infrastructure such as providing fuel or food.

Winter weather is expected to worsen through Friday, making driving conditions treacherous. These travel restrictions are being coordinated with neighboring states.

In addition to the commercial restrictions, all motorists are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel on Friday, the NJ DOT said.

The commercial vehicle travel restriction will begin at 3 a.m. Friday, and will be in place until further notice.

Here’s where the restrictions are in effect (in both directions):

• I-76 (entire length)
• I-78 (entire length)
• I-80 (entire length)
• I-195 (entire length)
• I-280 (entire length)
• I-287 (entire length)
• I-295 (entire length)
• I-676 (entire length)
• NJ Route 440 (both directions from the Outerbridge Crossing to I-287)

The commercial vehicle travel restriction applies to:

• All tractor-trailers (exceptions as listed in the Administrative Order)
• Empty straight CDL-weighted trucks
• Passenger vehicles pulling trailers
• Recreational vehicles
• Motorcycles

Trucks that are already in New Jersey when the travel restrictions go into place are encouraged to pull off in truck stops to wait out the storm.

NJDOT has asked motorists to avoid driving unless they are essential employees needed for emergency response.

If they must drive, motorists are advised to:

• Slow down and obey posted speed limits
• Always stay clear of plowing and spreading trucks. If they are behind you, let them pass
• Do not pass between trucks that are in a plow formation
• Leave early and allow extra time
• Leave a safe following distance between vehicles
• Use caution on bridges and ramps
• If you are driving and road conditions deteriorate, pull off somewhere safe and wait it out
• Be patient and use caution
• Keep an emergency kit in your car with a cell phone charger, water, snacks, blanket, and other items.

For more information, click here.

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