Here Are Some Winter Driving Tips!

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory in effect from now until noon today. This advisory covers the counties of Adams, Brown and Pike. With weather forecasts calling for snow accumulations between 1 and 3 inches, Illinois State Police - District 20 would like to caution motorists to be prepared before venturing out onto the roadways

Motorists should be alert for snow plows, emergency vehicles and road conditions which can change rapidly.

Remember bridges and overpasses will freeze before other parts of the road. With slick snow covered roads, drivers need to increase their following distance to allow more time for braking.

Leave early and slow it down so you are not rushed to arrive at your destination. You should plan ahead by checking weather forecasts as well as road conditions for the areas you are traveling through.

Please be aware of emergency vehicles which may be stopped assisting other motorists. Drivers should slow down and move over when approaching these scenes. Not only is it the safe and responsible thing to do, it is also the law.

Place extra blankets and winter clothing in your car for use in an emergency. Make sure you have a fully charged cell phone and cell phone charger in the car before leaving home.

If you become stranded, STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE. With the extreme cold temperatures forecast for the next few days, a person can risk great bodily harm or death if they are caught outside without the proper cold weather protection.

If you must leave your vehicle, place a note with your name and a contact number where you can be reached, on the front driver’s seat. This will aid the police in locating you at a later time for removal of the vehicle.

For further information on Winter Driving Tips as well as a suggested Winter Emergency Survival Kit, log onto www.isp.state.il.us. Look under the “Traffic” heading on the left side of the main screen. Motorists can also check for updated road conditions at www.gettingaroundillinois.com or by calling the Illinois Department of Transportation weather road conditions at (800) 452- 4368.