Crime & Safety
Illinois Officials Launch Winter Driving Safety Campaign
The St. Charles Police Department urges motorists to allow extra time, take precautions and be alert when driving on winter roads.
The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Tollway and the Illinois State Police have joined forces to launch the "Ice and Snow — Take it Slow" winter driving safety campaign. The effort hopes to encourage motorists to slow down and drive with extra caution this winter.
“Allowing extra travel time is necessary in unfavorable winter driving conditions,” said Cmdr. Erik Mahan, Traffic and Special Events, St. Charles Police Department. “Many accidents can be avoided by remembering to not follow other vehicles too closely, avoiding distractions, and simply by slowing down.”
The campaign offered these driving safety tips:
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Eliminate all distractions — on Jan. 1, 2014, it will be illegal to drive and use a hand-held phone or texting device at all times.
Reduce your speed and allow for extra travel time.
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Increase distances between vehicles and avoiding unnecessary lane changes.
Wear seat belts in every seating position.
Don't crowd the plow — a snow plow operator's field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
Watch out for black ice on roads that appear clear but can be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shady areas — all are prone to black ice, which is often invisible.
Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle's fuel line from freezing.
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.
Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, nonperishable food and a first aid kit.
Carry a cellphone and dial *999 for roadway assistance.
Motorists are urged to check travel conditions before any trip by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or the Illinois Tollway at 1-800-TOLL-FYI orwww.gettingaroundillinois.com.
For more information, contact Commander Mahan, at 630-377-4435.
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