Winter Driving
Cook County residents need to prepare for winter. This includes our driving habits as well as our vehicles. Here are some tips that may prove helpful when driving in the winter months.
- Have your car inspected and fully winterized prior to the winter season. Pay particular attention to your vehicles battery connections, vehicle charging system, defroster, tires, brakes, antifreeze, wiper blades and belts.
- As a general rule of thumb, during the winter months try not to go below a half a tank of fuel. This prevents condensation from building up in your vehicles fuel line and freezing, plus it ensures that you will have enough fuel to run your vehicles heater in the event of any emergency.
- Check your local weather and travel conditions before heading out. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- If traveling a long distance, plan your route ahead of time. Let someone know of your destination and expected time of arrival.
- Always make sure you and your passengers wear seatbelts.
- Slow down whenever crossing bridges and overpasses, these roadways tend to freeze first. Avoid any sudden changes of speed or direction as you drive over them.
- Keep windows, mirrors, wiper blades, headlights, taillights and license plate areas free of snow and ice. This will ensure that you can both see, and be seen.
- Know how to handle your particular (front or rear wheel drive) vehicle. Leave a larger space between you and other vehicles.
- If you become stuck or stranded, don't panic. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth. Wait for help to arrive. If you have a cell phone, call for help. Be careful if you have to exit your vehicle when on the shoulder of a busy road. If possible, use the door away from traffic. If you attempt to free your vehicle from the snow, be careful out in the weather. Dress warmly, shovel slowly and do not overexert yourself. Do not attempt to shovel or push your vehicle if you have a medical condition.
- Try to draw attention to your vehicle. Use emergency flashers, flares, or a Call Police sign. Run your motor sparingly and be careful of exhaust fumes. For fresh air, slightly open a window away from the wind. You also may have to exit your vehicle occasionally to make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of drifting snow. In blizzard conditions, especially overnight, it may take some time for help to arrive. Remember to use the items in your winter survival kit for warmth and nourishment.