Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Holiday travel season in Chicago and elsewhere can be difficult to manage, especially when you add nasty winter storms and dangerously icy roads. Of course winter storms are inevitable this time of year so our Illinois car accident lawyers want to remind motorists to drive safely to avoid crashes that could lead to injuries and death.

Of particular note is driving near and around snow plows, tractor-trailers and other large vehicles. These types of vehicles are difficult to see around, and sometimes their drivers can't maneuver quickly or stop quickly so driving behind them can be dangerous. Motorists either need to prepare to stay off roadways completely or plan to reduce their speed to help avoid a car accident in Cook County and throughout the state.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) offers fair warning by helping motorists with some winter driving tips.

First, ask yourself if the trip is really necessary. If the answer is yes, then check for updated weather conditions on the radio, television or online. Current road conditions during a storm are updated every two hours by calling 1-800-452-IDOT. Always alert a family member, friend or co-worker of your travel plans. This includes what time you are leaving, where you are going, what route you plan to travel and what time you expect to arrive. Motorists are also encouraged to travel during daylight hours, fill your fuel tank before you leave and always have forms of identification on you or in the vehicle.

Safe tips to use while driving in winter conditions include:

-In rainy or foggy conditions keep your headlights on dim. You can also use your fog lights during foggy driving conditions.

-Increase the distance you follow behind a vehicle.

-Reduce the speed in which you travel and never attempt to pass a vehicle at full speed.

-If you notice ice or snow accumulation on the road, start slowly and gently use your brakes to avoid slipping.

-Shady spots or below overpasses or bridges may be extra slippery so be careful in these areas.

-Fasten your seatbelt to help reduce the severity of injury in a crash.

-If you find yourself becoming stressed or heading toward panic mode, turn back and go home or pull over into a safe parking lot where someone can find you.

-Keep the defrost mechanism on high when driving in sleet or icy conditions.

-Allow snow plows plenty of room to maneuver and stay out of their blind spots.

The Illinois State Police suggests preparing a coffee can survival kit to leave in your vehicle during the winter. Contents of the can should include:

-60 inches of heavy string or twine cut in three equal lengths
-Three large safety pins
-2" diameter candle
-book of matches
-packets of soup, hot chocolate, tea bags or bouillon cubes
-small package of peanuts and fruit candy
-pocket knife
-pen light with batteries
-plastic leaf bag
-pair of heavy cotton socks and cotton gloves

Motorists are encouraged to prepare for the worst and always drive safely when inclement weather hits. Keeping safety in mind can help reduce the risk of injury to you or others.