Winter Advisory From The Illinois State Police

Another Round of winter weather will take hold this morning and continue through the weekend, District 20 Commander Robert Elliott would like to remind motorists to drive safely by following these tips:

"Stay warm, stay home and don't travel if it's even questionable," "One Driving Fatality is One too Many."
OBEY THE STATES “MOVE OVER LAW”!!!!! This Law requires drivers to yield to emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles and tow trucks that have rotating or flashing lights. Be cautious, slow down and move over for emergency vehicles assisting stranded motorists on the roadway.
LET THE SNOW PLOWS DO THERE JOB, Be cautious while traveling near or around Snow Plows. Check your travel destinations before leaving, some areas will be worse than others.
Watch out for black ice – roads that appear clear but actually are ice covered
Dress warm and take a cell phone in case of emergency
Slow down and increase your following distance
Allow extra time to your destination, make sure others are aware of your travel route.
Look ahead for and anticipate possible hazards
Understand the posted speed limit is too fast for driving conditions
Wear a seat belt
Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluids, small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non perishable food and a first aid kit.

No one thinks that they will become stranded when they head out. The more motorists that end up in the ditch the longer it takes Law Enforcement to get from one to another. Remember, weather conditions can change rapidly and create hazardous driving conditions.

Motorists can check on interstate road conditions by contacting the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) at 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or on the Internet at www.gettingaroundillinois.com

Contributed by Trooper Mike Kindhart, Safety Education Officer with Illinois State Police District 20.