When winter weather hits, snow and ice can turn into chaos.
Central Illinois has experienced a surge of snow and ice, prompting multiple communities to declare emergencies. The Illinois State Police have reported a dramatic increase in traffic incidents across the region. In a short period, troopers have responded to more than 250 vehicle crashes and weather-related traffic incidents, including multi-vehicle collisions and spinouts, as snow, ice, and frigid conditions create hazardous roadways for motorists.
As winter storms moved through the region, road conditions deteriorated rapidly around Champaign and Kankakee communities. Snow accumulation, freezing temperatures, and slick, icy conditions led to weather-related spinouts, fender-benders, and more serious pileups on highways such as Interstate 55 and Interstate 57.
Tips For Winter Weather Driving
If possible, it’s best to stay home and avoid the roads, especially if a winter storm is approaching or there is ice on the roadways.
Tips Before You Go
- Prepare an emergency kit: In case you get stranded on icy, cold, crowded highways, keep jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, traction material (like sand), blankets, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit in your vehicle.
- Remove snow and ice from your vehicle: It is required by law and helps ensure full visibility.
- Make sure your phone is charged: This allows you to contact help if you need it. And even better, bring a phone charger along for the ride.
Tips Once You’re On The Road
- Buckle up: Always ensure you and your passengers are wearing seatbelts. It’s the law.
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed – there’s no need to rush, it only increases your risk of a severe accident. Accelerate gradually and brake slowly to maintain traction.
- Turn on headlights in snow: Visibility drops quickly as snow falls.
- Avoid using cruise control: It can reduce your control on icy, slippery roads.
- Watch for black ice: Roads may appear clear but can hide dangerous ice patches, especially on bridges, ramps, and shaded areas.
- Give snowplows plenty of room: Plow operators may have restricted visibility; stay behind them for safer road conditions.
What Steps to Take After an Auto Crash in Illinois
If you were involved in a recent winter auto collision or any serious crash near the communities of Kankakee, Champaign, or Danville, here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical attention right away: Even if your injuries seem minor, more pain and symptoms can develop later. Sometimes, the initial shock and chaos after an auto collision can hinder your ability to feel the extent of your pain immediately.
- File a police report: Call the police at the scene. The official crash report is essential for insurance and legal purposes.
- Document the scene and damages: If possible, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries you or your passengers may have.
- Get a copy of your crash report: You can request your crash report through official channels.
- Consult an experienced car crash attorney: A skilled attorney can protect your rights and help with claims, especially if another driver’s negligence or recklessness was a factor.
Spiros Law Can Help You Navigate The Aftermath of An Auto Collision
Weather conditions can change quickly when you’re on the road, and when you’ve been injured in an auto collision, so does your life. Winter weather makes negligence more difficult to prove, but Spiros Law has your back. If another person’s negligence was the cause of the incident and your injuries, contact Spiros Law to see if you have a case.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for legal guidance, especially if injuries or significant losses occurred. By understanding your rights and following the recommendations of your personal injury attorney, you can navigate the aftermath of a winter crash with confidence.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Viewing this site or contacting Spiros Law does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Do not send confidential information through this website.
