Winter is here, so it’s time to refresh yourself on the crucial information you need to know about winter driving safety in Illinois. The number of car crashes and injuries drastically increases during our harsh winter months here in Illinois. The Chicago traffic accident lawyers of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. provide the following winter driving safety tips to help you stay safe this season. If you are injured in a crash, contact us for a free consultation with our compassionate personal injury attorneys. It’s also worth understanding how a car accident affects your driving record in Illinois, since winter collisions can carry consequences that follow you long after the roads clear.
Before You Hit the Road
Keep the following tips in mind before you leave the house or set off on a road trip this winter:
- Ensure your vehicle has undergone recommended maintenance. Check your fluid levels and test your brakes, lights, and wipers. Put winter tires on your vehicle. Make sure your tires have good tread and are properly inflated.
- Check the weather forecast before you leave. Avoid getting caught in a winter storm while on the road.
- Clear all snow and ice off your vehicle. This includes scraping snow off your roof and your headlamps.
- Leave early. Give yourself enough time to get to your destination without needing to speed.
- Familiarize yourself with your route if taking a long trip. Look into different routes in case you get detoured.
- Share information. Tell someone where you are going, your route, and when you plan to arrive at your destination.
On the Road
Remember the following safety tips while on the road during the winter season:
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Use your headlights even during the day.
- Avoid distracted driving.
- Stay within the speed limit. Drive a little slower if you encounter adverse weather or road conditions.
- Watch out for black ice, which commonly forms first on bridges and overpasses.
- Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Refrain from using your cruise control.
- Depress the brake pedal slowly and firmly when braking. Avoid slamming on your brakes.
- Pull over if weather or road conditions become too dangerous for you to continue driving safely.
If Your Car Becomes Disabled
Cold weather can damage motor vehicles. Here are some safety steps to follow if your car becomes disabled on the road:
- Stay calm.
- Remain in your vehicle. It is safer than standing near the road and makes it easier for emergency personnel to find you.
- Call AAA or roadside assistance. Otherwise, contact law enforcement, or call 911 if you believe you are in immediate danger.
- Warn others about your disabled vehicle. Place flares or reflector triangles behind and in front of your vehicle and activate your vehicle’s hazard lights.
Bring Your Winter Storm Survival Kit
Finally, you should pack your vehicle with a winter storm survival kit if your car breaks down or you become stranded in winter weather. A vehicle winter storm survival kit should contain the following:
- Blankets
- Extra hats, socks, and gloves
- Jumper cables
- Flares or reflector triangles
- Windshield washer fluid
- An ice scraper, brush, and small shovel
- Traction material, such as coarse sand or cat litter
- Bottled water
- A portable battery pack to charge your cell phone
- High-calorie non-perishable food, such as trail mix or protein bars
- Work gloves
- A flashlight or lantern, plus extra batteries
Our Attorneys Can Assist You
No amount of preparation and care can completely prevent the chances of a car crash. If you find yourself in a crash this season, reach out to the Chicago traffic accident attorneys of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. for a free, no-obligation consultation. For more than 40 years, we have advocated for the rights of accident victims across Illinois, recovering more than $3.5 billion in compensation. Let us help you fight for the money and accountability you deserve. We also represent those injured on foot — if you or a loved one was struck while walking in winter conditions, our Chicago pedestrian accident lawyers are ready to help.
