Snow and ice pose significant challenges to transportation across the United States, particularly in regions experiencing substantial winter snowfall. The Us Department Of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes the widespread impact of these conditions, as over 70 percent of the nation’s roadways are situated in areas that receive more than five inches of average annual snowfall. This also means that approximately 70 percent of the American population lives in these snow-prone regions, highlighting the extensive reach of winter weather’s effects on daily life and transportation infrastructure.
One of the primary concerns during winter weather is the reduction in road safety. Snow and ice accumulation drastically diminish pavement friction, making it harder for drivers to control their vehicles. This loss of maneuverability leads to slower traffic speeds and a decrease in roadway capacity. Studies have shown that average speeds on arterial roads can drop by 30 to 40 percent when pavements are covered in snow or slush. Even on freeways, speeds are impacted, decreasing by 3 to 13 percent in light snow and significantly more, from 5 to 40 percent, during periods of heavy snowfall. Furthermore, heavy snow, sleet, and ice can severely limit visibility, compounding the dangers.
The consequences of these hazardous conditions are evident in crash statistics. Annually, nearly a quarter of all weather-related vehicle crashes occur on pavements affected by snow, slush, or ice. A concerning 15 percent of these crashes happen directly during snowfall or sleet. Tragically, these winter conditions contribute to over 1,300 fatalities and more than 116,800 injuries on snowy, slushy, or icy roads each year. Specifically during snowfall or sleet, approximately 900 deaths and 76,000 injuries result from vehicle crashes.
Beyond safety concerns, snow and ice also place a significant financial burden on road maintenance. Winter road maintenance constitutes about 20 percent of state Department of Transportation (DOT) maintenance budgets. Across the country, state and local agencies spend over 2.3 billion dollars annually on snow and ice control operations. In addition to these operational costs, millions more are spent each year to repair infrastructure damage caused by the harsh effects of winter weather, including the freeze-thaw cycle and the use of deicing chemicals. The US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration plays a crucial role in overseeing and supporting these efforts to mitigate the impacts of snow and ice on the nation’s transportation infrastructure.
