December 21, 2012
(photo from flickr user biofriendly)
Winter is here. The Illinois State remind you to be safe out there and reccomend some safe driving tips you can follow when driving in incliment weather.
- only use cruise control on dry surfaces
- if you lose traction gradually slow down, do not slam on the brakes
- use caution when driving on bridges and ramps, frost forms on these surfaces first
- be careful when approaching shaded areas, this is the last place for ice and snow to melt.
They also stress the importance of vehicle maintenance. Check your tires and windshield wipers for wear and tear. Make sure there is gas in your tank and drive with your headlights on in daylight hours when its foggy or in low visibility.
Stock your car with:
tools (jack, lug wrench), bottled water, non perishable food, extra warm clothes, boots, hats and gloves, ice scraper, flash light with fresh batteries, first aid kit, jumper cables, blanket/sleeping bag(s), a bright colored cloth to tie on your antennae as a flag if you are stranded and an old cell phone with car charger (a deactivated phone will activate when “911” is dialed).
Phone numbers:
IDOT's Winter Road Condition Line: 800-452-IDOT (4368)
Toll Road Information: 800-865-5394.