Winter Driving & Vehicle Safety 101
Winter weather can cause dangerous road conditions, but preparing for winter weather can help reduce the hazards that drivers might face on a snowy or icy roadway. Earlier this month, a winter storm caused multiple crashes that led to several injuries and a closure of I-80 in eastern Iowa.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) key message is to slow down. In addition, increase the following distance between cars so there's plenty of time to stop. The Illinois State Police, which has a winter safety brochure available at isp.illinois.gov/ TrafficSafety/WinterSafety, adds to plan travel accordingly, including alternate routes and letting someone know of your travel itinerary.
• Check latest weather information on your radio.
• Drive carefully and defensively. Watch for ice patches on bridges and overpasses.
