MORTON, Ill. – State transportation officials are urging drivers to stay safe on the roads as winter approaches.
Representatives from IDOT, the Illinois State Police, and local unions launched their “Winter Weather – Get It Together” awareness campaign Tuesday in Morton to promote safe driving during snow and ice.
IDOT Operations Engineer Anna Ghidina said the campaign aims to prepare drivers before winter conditions catch them off guard.
“They think they can drive as fast as they can, but you really can’t,” Ghidina said. “You really need to slow down and take your time, and understand there are different conditions out there that your vehicle isn’t going to perform the way it usually does.”
She said the biggest concerns are slowing down, leaving early, avoiding cell phone use, and giving snow plows enough space to operate.
IDOT is also reminding drivers to keep an emergency kit in their vehicles. It should include jumper cables, flares or reflectors, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and extra blankets.
Sometimes crashes in winter weather are unavoidable. ISP Trooper John Carrigan said there are steps people can take to stay safe after an accident.
“We just ask that you call 911, stay within your vehicle, don’t make yourself a pedestrian that can be struck by a vehicle—so just stay in your vehicle with your seat belt on,” Carrigan said.
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