Is it an overreaction for New York state to close the state Thruway before a storm even hits? Or is it just state Gov. Andrew Cuomo making a statement after he was blamed after the major snow event in November for motorists being stranded on the interstate?

It is definitely a little bit of both. When the state Thruway closed early Friday into Saturday morning from Ripley to Rochester, there were some hazardous conditions, but nothing like what happened from Nov. 17 to 20 when Western New York was hit by 7 feet of snow in some areas.

If anything, the state – after criticisms two months ago – is trying to play it safe. While its intentions are meant well, our economy suffers when the Thruway is closed. And last week was not the first time it happened.

On Dec. 31, the state Thruway did ban tractor-trailers due to wind and snow forecasts. The result? The storm never really materialized.

Most drivers, especially after the November storm, understand the dangers of winter driving. In the future, as was past policy, let them decide whether to venture out.