Due to a large volume of snow in the Central New York area and poor travel conditions, AAA Western and Central New York is reminding motorists to abide by emergency orders and driving bans.

The Rochester area faces winter weather advisories in Monroe and Livingston counties, the travel advisory warns motorists to drive slowly, cautiously, and stay home if a driving ban goes into effect. AAA prioritizes service requests in an effort to assist members who are in dangerous roadside conditions first. 

AAA advice to motorists:

• If you are in an emergency situation, don’t hesitate to call 911 for assistance. If you are at home or in a safe location, we appreciate your patience as we try to ensure the safety of those on the road in extremely cold conditions first.
• If a driving ban goes into effect, please obey it. We may be unable to provide service in areas that are under travel bans. Please refer to 511ny.org, or your town or county website for further information.
• If possible, stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can.
• Try to avoid driving when visibility is poor. If you must drive, keep your speed low, use your low-beam headlights, and pull off to a safe spot if conditions worsen.
• Check your local weather & road conditions before you drive.
• Your vehicle must be cleared of snow for AAA crews to provide service.
• If you go off the road, stay seat belted in your vehicle and call for help. If you are in an emergency situation, call 911.
• If you get stranded in your car, keep your tailpipe clear of snow to ensure proper ventilation and keep your window cracked open a bit until help arrives.
• The top three winter driving tips include slowing down, increasing the space between yourself and other vehicles, and braking, THEN turning. 

Winter storms, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter, according to research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. 

To request roadside assistance, visit our website or download the AAA Mobile App, or call 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357). Please keep in mind that we may be unable to provide service in areas that are under travel bans. Please refer to your town or county website for further information.