More snow coming Thursday: tips for those who must drive

During last weekend’s winter storm, the Illinois State Police District 5 received calls for 40 crashes and 130 calls from drivers requesting assistance.

So with more snow predicted for Thursday, the ISP offered the following tips for drivers who must be on the road during inclement weather.

According to the ISP, you should plan ahead, be certain the trip is really necessary and then leave early to allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

Before you get on the road, make sure:

· Windshield wipers are not worn.

· Vehicle fluid levels are adequate.

· Tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread.

· Vehicle windows and lights are cleared of snow and ice.

· You dress warmly for the weather-dress in layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in anticipation of unexpected winter weather emergencies.

· Tell someone of travel plans. Make sure that person knows your route and estimated departure and arrival time.

· Fully charge your cell phone. Keep a cell phone charger with you in your vehicle.

· Carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.

· Put your safety belt on and leave it on.

After you get on the road:

· Don’t crowd any snowplows you encounter. The field of vision is limited for people who operate snowplows. Just because you can see them doesn’t mean they can see you.

· Avoid unnecessary lane changes, reduce your speed and increase your following distance on snowy or ice covered roadways.

· Mover over (or slow down if moving over is unsafe) when approaching an emergency vehicle with its hazards lights activated, such as snowplows and tow trucks - or any vehicles on the roadway with their hazard lights activated,

· Watch out for ice on roads that may be treacherous.

· Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shaded areas. All of these are prone to ice.

If you are involved in an accident:

· If possible, and there are no injuries, move your vehicle out of the roadway as soon as possible and activate your hazard lights.

· Remain in your vehicle, with your seatbelt buckled. Call 911 to report the crash.

· Be aware of your location and direction of travel. Provide accurate information to the dispatcher.

· If no one is injured and your vehicle is drivable, you may be directed to an ISP District headquarters at a later time to obtain a crash report after roadway conditions improve and when call volumes decrease. This way, you won’t remain on the side of the road during winter weather conditions for an extended period of time.