Winter weather has hit hard and
early this year in Chicago and throughout Illinois. Though it’s very important
to have your guard up when driving, it is especially important when there is
ice and snow on the roads. The Illinois Department of Transportation (“IDOT”)
posted some important tips on their website for both how to handle the road and
also a survival kit in case you happened to become stranded. Read the
below tips so that you will be ready this winter to avoid car accidents and
dangerous situtations:
Survival Kit:
· Ice scraper,
snow brush, rags and paper towels.
· Jumper
cables, basic tool kit, antifreeze, no-freeze windshield washer fluid and extra
drive belt(s).
· Shovel,
traction mats or old rugs, tire chains, salt, cat box litter or sand.
· Blankets and
extra clothing including hats, socks, waterproof boots, coats and gloves.
· Non-perishable,
high-calorie food.
· Candles,
waterproof matches and a metal container (coffee can) in which to melt snow
into water.
· Flashlight
with extra batteries, flares or roadway reflectors.
· A basic
first aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
· A cellular
telephone with a backup power source might be the single most important safety
item available. A citizen’s band radio is a good alternative.
Driving tips:
· Buckle those
seat belts! (It’s the law)
· Be prepared
to turn back or seek refuge if conditions become threatening.
· In RAIN,
drive with your headlights on dim.
· In FOG,
drive with your headlights on dim, or use fog lights.
· If the fog
is too dense, pull off the roadway and stop. Do not drive at less than 10 miles
per hour.
· In RAIN,
FOG, SNOW or SLEET, do not overdrive your headlights.
· Stay within
the limits of your vision.
· Keep your
windows clear of snow and ice. Do not start until your windshield is defrosted.
· Drive slower
and increase your following distance. Your speed should be adjusted for the
conditions and match the flow of traffic.
· Roadway
conditions may vary depending on the sun, shade or roadway surface. Watch for
slick spots especially under bridges, on overpasses and in shaded spots. Be
prepared to react physically and mentally.
· If the
pavement is snow or ice covered, start slowly and brake gently. Beginbraking
early when you come to an intersection.
· If you start
to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the
skid until you feel you have regained traction then straighten your vehicle.
· When you
approach a snow plow from behind, pass with care and only when you can see
the road ahead of the plow. You should not try to pass in blowing snow. There
may be a vehicle in that cloud of snow! Allow more distance between you and the
plow, they may be spreading salt.
· Be alert
when you approach a cloud of snow which covers the road, especially on passing
lanes of interstates or freeways. Slow down and approach with caution. A snow
plow may be at work clearing the lane or preparing to turn around.
· Be careful
after a minor rear end accident. If you are bumped from behind and you do not
feel comfortable exiting your vehicle, motion the other driver and drive to the
nearest police station, 24-hour store, service station, hospital or fire
station.
If you or someone you
love has been involved in a serious Chicago car accident or Chicago truck accident, then call Chicago personal injury lawyer Aaron Bryant for a free legal consultation at 312-588-3384.