It is that time again in Illinois and Missouri—winter weather driving. Living in the Midwest, we usually get an ample supply of winter weather yet each winter we are always a little surprised by the first snow and/or ice. We are just halfway through November and we have already experienced some snow and bitter cold. So, the best thing each of us can do is prepare. Each year I write numerous articles about winter weather driving because it can be very dangerous. I read what experts say and it seems that the individuals who work car crashes daily have some of the best tips.
State Highway Patrol Recommends that each of us, SLOW DOWN and increase your following distance.
Anytime weather conditions change suddenly as they did this last weekend, it seems the number of car crashes increase. A good rule of thumb, if weather conditions change, slow down. When you visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol and/or the Illinois State Police’s website, you see they recommend slowing down as one of their first and most important strategies. Slow down and increase the following distance between you and the car you are behind. Allow for more travel time and communicate your travel plans so if you do not show up to your destination within a reasonable time, someone knows approximately where to look for you.
If you are in a crash and have to get out of your vehicle, do not stand in the roadway.
If you are in a crash, most often you have to get out but do not stand in the middle of the roadway and expect other drivers to see you. While this may seem like common sense, people are frequently hit by other cars when they stand in the roadway after a crash. Depending on the seriousness of the damage, getting yourself to a safe place is crucial especially if visibility is low. Before emergency personnel arrive to secure the scene, you will want to move yourself to a safe location, if possible. Obviously, movement is decided by the nature of the injuries to the victims. And obviously, a safe distance is not usually several miles down the road—that can easily be construed as hit and run.
Prepare for the Worst
Troopers in Illinois and Missouri state that the first couple of winter storms or deep freezes can be the worst. The common advice is, if you don’t have to travel, then stay off the roadways. There are several ways you can prepare for winter weather travel.
Prepare Your Car:
Be sure you have good windshield wipers, plenty of washer fluid, check antifreeze, battery and tires. Also, be sure you have plenty of gas as it helps from freezing up in the winter. As well, delays in traffic can be much longer and you can burn through fuel quickly.
Other Safety Winter Travel Supplies
Be sure you have a warm winter coat, gloves and a hat, even a blanket and some food is suggested. Be sure if you have an ice scraper with you in case snow falls while you are out and about. Be sure you have a cell phone with you since road conditions can change very quickly.
Last Reminder: Slow Down, Buckle Up and Look for Emergency Lights and Move Over
Emergency personnel are killed every year by cars and trucks that hit them when they are assisting stranded motorist or when they are responding to vehicle collisions. Again, slow down and when you see emergency lights, slow down even more and move over so they can do their job.
If you are in a car crash and if you are injured, you will need an expert accident attorney. At The Cagle Law Firm, we represent victims of auto crashes including car and truck accidents. Consultations are always free and we are available seven days a week. Call toll free (800) 685-3302 or locally (314) 276-1681
Illinois State Police: Winger Driving Tips.
Cold Weather Driving Safety Tips. Deitz. B. KWQC. 11/17/14
