Motorists had to cope with autumn snowfall on Nov. 11 in the Southern Illinois area. The photograph was taken in Anna.

Illinois motorists encouraged to prepare for winter weather

With motorists throughout the state preparing for holiday season travel, the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois State Police remind everyone that the brunt of winter is yet to come and encourage the driving public with “Winter Weather – Get it Together.” 

“Illinois winters are unpredictable. Weather and road conditions need to be on the minds of all travelers these next few months,” said acting Illinois Department of Transportation, IDOT, Secretary Omer Osman. 

“By planning ahead and practicing safe winter driving habits, you can do your part to help ensure the safety of everyone on the road.” 

Throughout the coming months of cold weather and adverse conditions, motorists are advised to practice basic winter driving skills and to build extra time into their schedules. 

As part of the “Winter Weather – Get it Together” campaign, travelers are encouraged to follow some key 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. 

Drop it and drive. Put down the handheld devices: it, too, is the law in Illinois.  

Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you. Any plow that’s hit must be pulled out of service, resulting in one less piece of equipment responding to snow and ice.  

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. If you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route. Acquaint yourself with local public transportation options.  

Prepare an emergency 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.

Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency. 

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.

Motorists can check statewide travel conditions by visiting gettingaroundillinois.com. 

For the upcoming winter, IDOT will have more than 1,800 trucks available for deployment to plow almost 16,000 miles of roads statewide.

Last year, IDOT spread more than 600,000 tons of salt statewide. This winter, salt domes throughout the state are close to capacity, with more than 570,000 tons on hand.

“As the winter weather approaches, the Illinois State Police would like to ask all drivers to keep their eyes on the road, drive at a speed safe for conditions and Move Over-Slow Down for all vehicles with flashing lights,” Illinois State Police director Brendan F. Kelly said. 

“Please help us keep all motorists, including emergency personnel, safe by making responsible driving choices during hazardous winter weather conditions.”

The Gazette-Democrat

112 Lafayette St.
Anna, Illinois 62906
Office Number: (618) 833-2158
Email: news@annanews.com

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