NJDOT Imposes Commercial Vehicle Travel Restrictions Ahead of Major Winter Storm Starting Sunday
Share, Comment, Like, and Subscribe to support Independent Journalism!
By Adam Rizvi | Editor, The India Observer (TIO): TRENTON, NJ — The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has announced commercial vehicle travel restrictions on multiple Interstate highways beginning 12:01 a.m. Sunday, January 25, in anticipation of a significant winter storm expected to bring snow and hazardous driving conditions across the state.
According to NJDOT Acting Commissioner Joe Bertoni, winter weather is forecast to begin early Sunday morning and continue through Monday, January 26, creating potentially treacherous road conditions statewide. The restrictions are being coordinated with neighboring states to ensure regional safety and consistency.
Highways Under Commercial Vehicle Restrictions
The travel ban will remain in effect until further notice and applies to both directions on the following roadways:
- 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)
- Route 440 (Outerbridge Crossing to I-287)
Vehicles Subject to the Restriction
- All tractor-trailers (with limited exceptions outlined in NJDOT’s Administrative Order – Amended)
- Empty straight CDL-weighted trucks
- Passenger vehicles towing trailers
- Recreational vehicles
- Motorcycles
Roadways & Vehicles Exempt from the Ban
The following highways are NOT affected by the restriction:
- New Jersey Turnpike
- Garden State Parkway
- Atlantic City Expressway
Exemptions also include public safety vehicles, sworn and civilian emergency personnel, healthcare support staff, and vehicles supporting critical infrastructure such as fuel and food supply chains.
Trucks already in New Jersey when restrictions begin are strongly urged to pull into truck stops and wait out the storm. Parking on highway shoulders is strictly prohibited.
Safety Guidance for Motorists
NJDOT urges all residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. Motorists who must drive should follow these safety precautions:
- Reduce speed and drive cautiously
- Stay well clear of snow plows and salt spreaders
- Never pass between trucks operating in plow formation
- Allow extra travel time and maintain safe following distances
- Use caution on bridges, ramps, and elevated roadways
- Pull off safely if conditions worsen and wait it out
- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including water, snacks, blankets, and a phone charger
Additional winter preparedness information is available through the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management.
Stay Informed
For real-time traffic updates and road conditions, motorists are encouraged to visit 511NJ and follow NJDOT on social media.
Editorial Note — Adam Rizvi
Severe winter weather reminds us how critical coordination, preparation, and public awareness are to community safety. Timely advisories like these help protect not only drivers but also emergency responders and essential workers who keep our state running during difficult conditions.
Reader Call to Action
Read the full story on The India Observer website
Share this update with friends, family, and community members
Like, comment, and subscribe to The India Observer for trusted New Jersey news
Have a tip or press release? Send it to our newsroom and stay connected
NJDOT has announced commercial vehicle travel restrictions on multiple New Jersey highways starting Sunday due to an incoming winter storm. Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay safe. Read full details on The India Observer
Curated by Humra Kidwai
