With winter weather approaching and holiday travel beginning, the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and the Illinois Tollway are reminding Illinois drivers to prepare for winter driving conditions with “Winter Weather – Get it Together.”
Drivers are being encouraged to practice basic winter driving skills and build in extra time to and from their destinations. As part of the “Winter Weather – Get it Together” campaign, Illinois drivers are asked to follow these simple guidelines:
- Always wear a seat belt. It’s the law in Illinois.
- Slow down. Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking all are required in winter conditions.
- Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
- Avoid using cruise control when conditions are slick.
- Watch out for black ice. A road surface may appear clear but can be treacherous.
- Be especially careful approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas. All are prone to icing.
- Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary.
- Prepare an emergency kit that contains jumper cable, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit.
- Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency. For emergency assistance in the Chicago area, call *999.
- Give them distance. Obey the Move Over Law by slowing down and changing lanes when approaching ANY stopped vehicle with flashing lights.
- For a list of suggested maintenance for your car, visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s winter driving website.
- For more winter driving tips, check out this short IDOT video.
For more information, motorists can check statewide travel conditions by visiting gettingaroundillinois.com.