We were kind of lucky this winter in Chicago. December and January were fairly mild and we didn’t see a lot of ice or snow. That changed last week when the area was hit with what some are saying the 6th largest blizzard in Chicago history. Up to nineteen (19) inches of snow fell in certain parts of the metropolitan area.
With winter weather can com treacherous driving conditions. There is snow to deal with along with black ice and the resulting pot holes (though the city seems to be taking better care of these this year). The Illinois State Police have posted on their website some useful tips on how to prepare for winter driving and what to do in case you are stuck or have car issues.
What to do before driving in winter weather:
- Plan your travel, selecting both primary and alternate routes.
- Let someone know your travel routes and itinerary so that, if you don’t arrive on time, officials will know where to search for you.
- Check latest weather information on your radio.
- Try not to travel alone – two or three people are preferable.
- Travel in convoy (with another vehicle) if possible.
- Drive carefully and defensively. Watch for ice patches on bridges and overpasses.
- If a storm begins to be too much for you to handle, seek refuge immediately.
- If your car should become disabled, stay with the vehicle, running your engine and heater for short intervals. Be sure to “crack” a window in the vehicle to avoid carbon monoxide build-up.
Here are some tips what to check in your vehicle before driving during the winter:
- ignition system
- fuel system
- brakes
- exhaust system
- wiper blades
- snow tires
- tire tread
- defroster
- proper grade oil
- cooling system
- battery
- lights
- antifreeze
Finally, here are a list of items to store in your vehicle in case of winter emergencies. Especially if you are driving long distances:
- or 3 pound coffee can (punch 3 holes at the top of can, equal distance apart)
- 60-inch length of twine or heavy string (cut into 3 equal pieces – used to suspend can)
- 3 large safety pins (tie string to safety pins and pin to car roof interior to suspend can over candle)
- 1 candle 2″ diameter (place on lid under suspended can for melting snow)
- 1 pocket knife, reasonably sharp (or substitute with scissors)
- 3 pieces of bright cloth 2″ wide x 36″ long (tie to antenna or door handle)
- Several packets of soup, hot chocolate, tea, bouillon cubes, etc. (mixed into melted snow to provide warmth and nutrition)
- 1 small package of peanuts (provides protein) & fruit-flavored candy (orange slices, jelly beans, etc.-avoid chocolate)
- 1 pair of athletic socks (cotton) and 1 pair of glove liners (cotton)
- 2 packages of book matches
- 1 sun shield blanket or 2 large green or black plastic leaf bags (to reflect body heat)
- 1 pen light and batteries (keep separate)
Be careful the rest of this winter season and remember if you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a Chicago car crash or Chicago truck accident, then call Chicago personal injury lawyer, Aaron Bryant, for a free legal consultation at 312-614-1076.