Illinois Tollways Prepare for Winter Season
The IDOT, ISP, and Tollway encourage motorists to drive slow, buckle up and carry an emergency car care kit this winter season.
Michael Preston, Getty Images
Cars sit in the northbound lanes of Lake Shore Drive after accidents and drifting snow stranded the drivers during the Feb. 1, 2011 blizzard.
"Ice and snow- take it slow" is the mantra from the Illinois Department of Transportation.
As winter arrives, transportation and law enforcement officials stress that drivers take it easy during inclement weather.
The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Tollway and the Illinois State Police have worked together to prepare and ensure emergency equipment is ready for snow and ice this winter, according to an IDOT press release.
"Illinois State Police districts are coordinating road safety plans with the tollway and IDOT to ensure that our traffic enforcement priorities include safe driving, safe roads and safe access for all citizens during the winter months," ISP Division of Operations Mark Piccoli said in a release.
Last year IDOT spent $84.6 million on snow removal, and for this winter season they have 1,732 pieces of equipment and 3,960 employees to keep routes clear.
IDOT offers safety tips for motorists driving in snowy or icy conditions, some of which include: don't crowd the plow, drive slow when approaching intersections to avoid black ice and keeping the gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the fuel line from freezing.
They advise drivers to carry an emergency "car care kit" containing jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
You can check road conditions by calling 1-800-452-IDOT, or online at www.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on the winter road conditions icon.
