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According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 70% of
the nation's roads are in regions that average more than five inches
of snow a year, and nearly a quarter of weather-related vehicle
crashes occur on snowy or icy pavement annually.
In February, over 100 cars were involved in multiple crashes during
a winter storm which shut down an interstate north of
Bloomington-Normal.
Bob Passmore, vice president, personal lines at American Property
Casualty Insurance Association, said early in the season, motorists
sometimes forget how to drive in snowy conditions.
“When the first snow comes, you invariably see people who have
probably lived in Illinois their whole lives and yes, they forget
because it hasn’t been around for a while,” said Passmore. “That is
one of the many reasons we decide to remind folks to be careful out
there when those flakes start to fly.”
The Illinois Department of Transportation expects to have 1,700 snow
plows ready to keep the nearly 16,000 miles of Illinois roads clear
once the snow starts to fall.
Passmore said it is a good idea to prepare in case you get into an
accident.
“Your insurer or insurance agent can help you minimize problems in
finding a reputable auto body repair facility and assist you every
step of the way following an accident,” said Passmore. “Before
turning your vehicle over to a tow truck or body shop, make sure you
have spoken with your insurer or insurance agent."
Severe weather events last winter caused more than $1 billion in
insured losses.
Kevin Bessler reports on statewide issues in Illinois
for the Center Square. He has over 30 years of experience in radio
news reporting throughout the Midwest.
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