 The traffic safety advocates also took the opportunity to remind
motorists of two safety laws Gov. Pat Quinn signed into law earlier
this year. Both are aimed at reducing the number of distracted
driving crashes and are set to take effect Jan. 1. One law prohibits
the use of all hand-held mobile phones while driving anywhere in
Illinois, and the second increases penalties when any use of an
electronic device while driving is the cause of an accident.
"IDOT is fully prepared to tackle this year's winter weather, and
we always want to encourage the public to slow down, wear seat belts
in every seating position and eliminate all distractions, especially
in unfavorable winter driving conditions," said Illinois
Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. "IDOT has ensured that we
have sufficient snow removal supplies and staff during these crucial
months. We are committed to making sure our state roadways are as
clear and safe as possible."
During the 2013-14 winter season, 1,860 trucks statewide will be
available for deployment by IDOT crews to keep about 16,000 miles of
state routes clear and passable.
Last year, IDOT spent $64.7 million on snow removal and spread
460,000 tons of salt statewide.
For many years, state police, tollway and transportation
officials have worked together to urge motorists to drive
defensively and safely in winter weather.
"Every year, motorists face weather conditions that can have a
devastating impact on driving conditions and passenger safety.
Whether it's a semi-truck or a motor vehicle, motorists should drive
with extra caution to ensure that accidents are avoided and roads
are safe," said Illinois State Police Director Hiram Grau. "Reducing
your speed, allowing for extra travel time, increasing distances
between vehicles and avoiding unnecessary lane changes are just a
few simple precautions drivers can take to make commutes safer."
The Illinois Tollway has readied 182 plow trucks and other
equipment to combat snow and ice storms this winter across the
286-mile tollway system in northern Illinois. In addition, the
tollway has about 82,000 tons of salt on hand along with other
supplies, including liquid calcium chloride and roadway abrasives to
keep roadways clear for the 1.4 million daily drivers.
"Illinois Tollway crews stand ready to respond to winter
conditions to provide the safest, most efficient travel possible for
our customers," said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Kristi
Lafleur. "Drivers can do their part during winter weather by staying
focused on the road, keeping in mind that on Jan. 1, 2014, it will
be illegal to drive and use a hand-held phone or texting device, at
all times."
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Other safety tips to remember:
-
Don't crowd the
plow. A snowplow operator's field of vision is restricted. You
may see them, but they may not see you.
-
Allow extra time
for travel during the winter months.
-
Watch out for
black ice on roads that appear clear but can be treacherous.
Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges
and shady areas – all prone to black ice, which is often
invisible.
-
Always keep your
gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle's
fuel line from freezing.
-
Do not travel
during bad weather unless absolutely necessary. If you do have
to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is
aware of your travel route.
-
Always carry an
emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or
reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper,
traction material, blankets, nonperishable food and a first-aid
kit.
-
Carry a cellphone
and dial *999 for roadway assistance.
-
Always wear a
safety belt.
-
Motorists are urged to check travel
conditions before any trip. You can get road condition
information by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368), Illinois Tollway
information by calling 1-800-TOLL-FYI (865-5394), or go to
www.gettingaroundillinois.com and click on the "winter road
conditions" icon.
___
Map of
Illinois Department of Transportation regions and districts (IDOT)
[Text from
Illinois Department of
Transportation file received from the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information]
 |
