ILLINOIS STATE POLICE
Hiram Grau - Director
NEWS
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT |
| Date: November 16, 2011 | Trooper Mike Link |
| Time: 8:19 a.m. | 618.346.3524 - Office |
| 618.973.3050 - Cell | |
| mike.link@isp.state.il.us |
Illinois State Police Advises Drivers to Prepare for Inclement Weather During the Winter Months
COLLINSVILLE, IL – As the winter driving season approaches, the Illinois State Police is advising motorists to take the necessary precautions before getting behind the wheel. Vehicle safety is equally important to driving safely while on the roadways during inclement weather.
Extreme weather can have a devastating impact on driving conditions, especially when ice and snow are involved. Freezing rain, icy roads and white-out snow conditions can result in road hazardous for drivers of all ages. Illinois State Police officials urge motorists to drive with caution, and to allow extra travel time to get to final destinations.
"Every year the Metro-East faces weather conditions that have a significant impact on transportation and safety. Whether it’s a semi-truck or a motor vehicle, every safety precaution should be taken to ensure that crashes are avoided and roads are safe,” said District 11 Commander Brad Parsons. "Reducing your speed, allowing for extra travel time, increasing following distances between vehicles, and avoiding unnecessary lane changes are just a few simple precautions drivers can take to make commutes safer,” he added.
Commander Parsons also stressed that when crashes occur during extreme winter weather conditions, unless medical attention is required, the exchanging of insurance and driver information are advised to keep motorists safe and the roads clear. Motorists can file crash reports at the nearest State Police District within seven business days from when the crash occurred.
Listed below are a few safety tips drivers should keep in mind during the winter months:
- Plan ahead and check the forecast - Determine if the trip is necessary during inclement weather.
- Don’t crowd the plow – remember, a snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
- Watch out for black ice – roads that appear clear may be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges, and shady areas – all are prone to black ice.
- Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to prevent the vehicle’s fuel line from freezing.
- Dress warmly for the weather—dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected winter weather emergencies.
- Make sure someone is aware of your travel route.
- Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
- Always carry a cell phone and charger.
- Always wear a safety belt.
Motorists can check on interstate road conditions by contacting IDOT at 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or on the Internet at: www.gettingaroundillinois.com.
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One Driving Fatality is One too Many and the Illinois State Police is Committed to Driving Zero Fatalities to a Reality
www.isp.state.il.us / TDD: 1-800-255-3323
